Lumbeer John's Beer Reviews

Beer Review: Samuel Adams Summer Ale

2011-07-05T21:10:00.002-04:00

The Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams Summer Ale

I can't believe I never reviewed this beer. I think this is such a ubiquitous beer that I always assumed I had reviewed this long ago. Time to right that wrong today. The summer ale pours a slightly hazy golden color with a foamy white head. Aroma is mostly wheat malt.

I don't know if the recipe has changed this year or if my tasting has improved but I get a lot more of the lemon peel than I have ever noticed in the past. I am a fan of this. The sweet and spicy wheat malt hits you up front followed by the tart lemon and the spicy grains of paradise. I don't get much in the hop department besides the basic balancing of the sweet malt.

This is a very well balanced easy drinking summer beer. The wheat malt pairs very well with the tart lemon and spices. I don't miss the hops with this one and if I have one criticism of this beer it would be that it is filtered. I am an advocate of unfiltered beer and I feel like this is a prime candidate for suspended yeast. It could only add more depth. If you have never had this beer, you need to try it. I don't know how someone could avoid this classic summer drink.

Final Score: 80% (A Solid "Go-To" Summer Beer)

Beer Review: Sly Fox Rt 113 IPA

2011-06-22T20:51:00.002-04:00

Sly Fox Brewing Company Route 113 India Pale Ale

Gotta love canned beer. Especially hoppy canned beer. I wish all beers were available in this light weight super protective medium. The IPA pours a rich amber color with a very long lasting lace filled caramel head. Aroma mainly of sweet malt.

The flavor is well balanced for an IPA of this size (a whopping 113 IBU with 7% ABV)! Somehow the malt profile is sweet and full enough to mostly balance the normally tongue blistering hops. Very nice beer. You really do get both worlds, sweet bready malt upfront with hops following shortly behind. Mainly grassy hop flavors, I don't get much in the citrus family. The aftertaste is a little strong with the bitterness but with a beer like this can't really avoid that.

This is an excellent example of a big beer that somehow always leaves you wanting more. I definitely recommend this for hop heads but those that aren't big on large hoppy IPAs should avoid this (if these people exist). I could definitely have a couple of these on any given night.

Final Score: 85% (Big, Hoppy, and Balanced)

Beer Review: Sierra Nevada Kellerweis

2011-06-21T21:23:00.003-04:00

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Kellerweis Hefeweizen

Summer is the time of hefeweizen for me. I through in other beers to mix it up but these unfiltered wheat beers are my warm weather drink of choice. This is also one of the few open fermentation hefeweizens produced in America. The hefe gets a rich white head to start out with that lingers with some slight lacing. The kellerweis is very cloudy and has a nice golden color. Full aroma of malt and banana, kinda like banana bread.

The open fermentation really pays off. Rich banana smoothly yields to the golden malt. Some clove is present but mainly banana. Hops are barely present but they aren't important in this style. The beer finishes with a slightly spicy wheat aftertaste which is good with the high carbonation. The wheat flavor is also closer to how I prefer it with it not being overly intense or puckering. This is a deep and tremendously drinkable beer.

Amazing beer. This is definitely one of my top two hefeweizens. Maybe even my favorite. The only one that I can say for sure is on par with this is the Sixpoint Eight Days of Wheat beer. I love a good hefeweizen that is dominated by banana. I wish more beers came unfiltered. I really don't know why most beers are filtered. The yeast adds flavor and loads of hangover preventing B-vitamins. This beer is better than all of the Bavarian hefeweizens I have tried. Sierra Nevada hit a home run with this and the fact that this is available year round is a great thing.

Final Score: 96% (Amazing Hefeweizen. World Class.)

Beer Review: Shiner Ruby Redbird

2011-06-21T21:00:00.002-04:00

Spoetzl Brewery Shiner Ruby Redbird

Finally Shiner beers are available in New Jersey. I got this one as a very generous gift from my father-in-law. This is the only beer with grapefruit in it that I have yet to encounter and adding ginger to the mix really makes things interesting. The redbird pours a medium golden color with a very quickly disappearing head due to the citrus. Aroma is solidly ginger with some grapefruit, not what you can normally expect from a beer.

The flavor is as unique as the two additional ingredients. The ginger and grapefruit really dominate the taste and the citric acid provides a nice tart aftertaste. The carbonation is very pronounced in this brew and really provides a nice effervescent quality. The traditional beer flavors of barley malt and hops are not as noticeable as in usual brews. The grapefruit and ginger provide a spicy, sour, and sweet experience that alternates while you are tasting the beer which to me is very refreshing.

This is a solid beer that I would definitely purchase this time of year. One nice thing to note if you are concerned with weight is that Spoetzl has the calorie information online and this beer comes in at a count of 116. This beer is a nice break from the constant hefeweizens that usually dominate my summer. The only negative thing I can say about this beer is that it isn't particularly deep and the hop and malt flavors really get muted. If you are a fan of grapefruit, ginger, and beer you owe it to yourself to try this out.

Final Score: 89% (Solid and Unique but Lacks Depth)

Beer Review: Kirkland Amber Ale

2011-04-09T22:00:00.005-04:00

New Yorker Brewing Company Kirkland Signature Amber Ale

Thanks to my very generous father-in-law I got a sampling of some of the craft brew offerings from Cosco. After doing some research and noting that the brewing company is located in Utica, New York it seems that this is actually brewed by the Matt Brewing Company. I guess they don't want to be associated with an established brewery. I would think an association like that would only help give credibility but I suppose if they are paying for the production of this beer they may not want to share any credit. The bottle displays both the alcohol content and the bitterness (IBU) measurement, which is fantastic. Very rarely do breweries display the bitterness measurement. The amber pours as suspected a clear amber color with a slightly tan head. Aroma of clean malt, not much else.

The flavor is very clean and malty with a pronounced toasted flavor. I don't taste much in the hop department but at 25 IBUs they are going to be dominated by a malty beer like this. The toasted malt comes across a little too strongly for me, almost like burnt toast. The flavor is rich and malty with some definite caramel character but that deep roasted flavor gets to be a bit abrasive.

Overall, this isn't my favorite beer but it is tasty and far beyond the cheap adjunt lagers that dominate most of the beer market. I read that a case of the four different beers goes for $18.99 which is a huge plus. I have yet to find craft beer that can compete at that price level. If you happen to be at a Cosco that sells this I would recommend picking it up. It probably won't be the best beer you will ever have but it is affordable without sacrificing much quality.

Final Score: 75% (Nice Sweet Malt but Marred by Burnt Flavors)

Beer Review: Otter Creek Alpine Black IPA

2011-02-08T21:27:00.002-05:00

Otter Creek Brewing Company Alpine Black India Pale Ale

The Black IPA is a newly developed style of beer that I believe the Brewers Association has now recognized as a legitimate style of beer. You have to love trying something new. The BIPA pours a dark mahogeny color similar to most stouts and has a caramel colored head. Noticeable hoppy aroma upfront.

This beer has two strong flavors going on. Chocolaty coffee and hops. Both are there upfront but the hops stand out more than anything as I would expect from this style. This is hard to judge right now because I find myself wanting more of the dark roasted barley flavor but this style has been designed to have the hops take a dominant front seat.

I am all for recognizing new styles of beer but I am not sure how unique or needed this style really is. Both porters and stouts can be hoppy but I guess this style serves to make sure you know what you are in for. It isn't overwhelmingly hoppy but the presence certainly is felt more than anything else. I am sure this isn't indicative of all BIPAs but I think this one is very one dimensional. A good IPA or Stout would be much better than this. Certainly drinkable but nothing I am going to go back for.

Final Score: 70% (One Dimensional and Underwhelming)

Beer Review: Three Philosopher's Ale

2011-01-03T20:49:00.003-05:00

Ommegang Brewery Three Philosophers Ale

This was part of a very nice Christmas gift pack I received. I am a big fan of the Ommegang brewery. This brewery is one of the best example of how America really is the greatest beer nation on the planet. American brewers continue to show that no style is impossible to master and that experimentation is the key to great beers. Where other countries are rigid in their views, we Americans understand that they bottom line is quality beer. This beer is a blend of 98% ale and 2% kriek (cherry lambic) according to the bottle. The 3P pours a dark mahogany color and has a dark tan head that really sticks around. The aroma comes across as that estery Belgian fruity yeast flavor that just seems to flow up the glass and dominates all other scents in the area.

This beer has some deep flavor. How they came upon the formula of 2% k and 98% ale I don't know but I wish I could have been in on that study. The Belgian ale alone is deep and effervescent but if you throw in a little bit of sour cherry lambic flavor you know you are going to be in beer paradise. The 10+% alcohol doesn't hurt either. The lightly roasted malt flavor keeps on coming and the slight fruity flavor really packs a punch. This isn't a hoppy beer but you really don't need a strong hop presence. The yeast and malt provide plenty of punch.

If you haven't had a Belgian style beer before stop reading this and pick one up. You are missing out on a great segment of the beer community. If you have and you enjoy any one of them do yourself a favor and support America by buying a beer from Ommegang. I would be surprised if any one of them disappointed. This is one to try.

Final Score: 96% (Great Ameri-Belgian Beer. Delicious and Deep. Must Try.)

Beer Review: Saranac Lake Effect Lager

2010-11-16T20:13:00.007-05:00

Matt Brewing Company Saranac Lake Effect Lager

Finally sitting down to write a review. Been too long but now that my wedding is over it needs to happen. I've written far too much to let this blog die. Feels good. I figure a good place to start is with one of my favorite breweries that happens to continually come up with new offerings. I love that they switch things up. The same beers year after year get very old, it makes it even better when one of you favorites makes an appearance (Bring Back the High Peaks Series!). The lake effect lager replaces the winter lager of last year. The lager pours a rich amber color with a brief fluffy white head. Smells of German goodness and some sweet malt.

The first thing that hits me about the flavor of this beer is the big malt presence. Very sweet and biscuty with a slight hint of roasting. Hops are also in effect here, the Hallertau hops add a pleasant spiciness that really balances this beer out. I would say this is similar to other bocks you may have had, just more balanced and drinkable. Somehow goes down easy. Could be that I just really like beer though.

The Matt Brewing Company seems to specialize in German style beers, probably due to their German heritage. This beer tastes truly German, all the lager yeast and malt flavor you would be looking for. Just without the import price. This makes a solid addition to this years "12 Beers of Winter" mix pack and a slight improvement on last year's Winter Lager.

Final Score: 86% (Big and Warming but Drinkable)

Beer Review: Original Flag Porter

2010-06-10T20:50:00.002-04:00

Darwin Brewing Company Original Flag Porter

Hearing rumors from a friend that this beer is retired and not seeing it on the website make me feel very fortunate to have found this historical beer (in more than one sense) before it disappears. This porter is brewed with yeast that was recovered from a ship that sunk in 1825. Very cool stuff. How can you not want to try this piece of history? The ale pours a dark amber color with an off white head. Aroma is very sweet. Almost like burnt sugar.

The flavor is also sweet. Dark roasted sugars dominate the palate with a very noticeable carbonation. Tingles on the tongue. I don't get much in the coffee department but some subtle chocolate comes through. Nothing revolutionary about the taste but I have to say that his is very drinkable and a solid example of what an English porter should be.

Overall, I don't have anything negative to say about this beer besides the price. I paid about 12 dollars for a four pack. This is a fun beer to try because of the historical gimmick but after you have had it I would recommend switching to something less expensive. In my opinion you aren't getting anything extra for your buck.

Final Score: 82% (Solid Beer, Too Pricey)

Beer Review: Stoudts Karnival Kolsch

2010-05-11T20:07:00.002-04:00

Stoudt's Brewing Company Karnival Kolsch Ale

This Cologne style used to be more obscure and is thankfully making a solid comeback in America. This is also a tough one to describe. Similar to a pilsner in ingredients with a twist on the fermentation process. The warm fermenting estery, fruity kolsch yeast really adds some depth to what would typically be a simple session beer. The kolsch pours a light golden color with a rich and foamy white head. Aroma isn't too strong, nothing too different from a standard pilsner or helles lager.

The most surprising thing about this beer after the first sip is the amount of hop flavor present. This is just way too assertive. Typically the hops are in balance with the malt in this style. This balance is critical to give the beer its needed depth. I just don't get much more than a hoppy pilsner. Slight malt sweetness and an aggressive grassy hop flavor. A little boring.

This is a decent beer but it really leaves me wanting a more traditional kolsch. If I went into this craving a pilsner I would be satisfied. The Karnival just doesn't provide that Kolschy flavor that I so rarely find. The hoppiness is way too strong. It drowns out any of the subtleties of the yeast.

Final Score: 69% (Fine Taste. Not A Kolsch.)

Beer Review: Saranac Irish Stout

2010-04-18T19:34:00.002-04:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Irish Stout

This is one of the newest Saranac released contained in the "What Ale's You?" mixed 12 packs. St. Patrick's day may now be a year away but Irish ales can and should be enjoyed year round. At least in the spring time. I think Irish stouts tend to be more dry than the traditional English Stouts but I am not certain about this. The aroma on this beer is pure roasted barley. Deep and dark. I also love the appearance, extremely dark in color and the head has that awesome tan color that comes with truly dark beers.

This is a big beer. Just fills my mouth up and really gives me that satisfying feeling that can only come from a beer that lacks nothing in flavor. This tastes like thick and delicious coffee. Similar to a Guinness but much better in my opinion. The lack of the nitrogen results in a slightly less smooth mouthfeel but it brings out a certain sweetness in the roasted barley. This is a very solid beer.

This would easily be one of my "go to" picks for an American made stout. I think even the Irish would have a hard time beating this take on one of their top export beers. This is big enough to really hit a couple flavor notes but drinkable enough that I could certainly have quite a few. I am hard pressed to find flaws in this.

Final Score: 88% (Deep, Dark, and Drinkable. A Credit to America.)

Beer Review: Tyskie Lager

2010-02-10T19:50:00.002-05:00

Tyskie Brewery Tyskie Gronie Premium Lager

Finally! An imported lager that comes in an amber bottle. Green seems way too common for my liking. The lager pours a remarkably clear golden color with a decent head retention. The head was slow to build but managed to stay around for a while. Aroma is of very faint malt. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Flavor is actually pretty dry for my taste. Similar to a typical Japanese lager (Asahi). Very sweet and clean malt flavor with almost nothing in the hop department besides the absolute minimum. This beer goes down very easily but it really doesn't leave me with much of an impression. Hops would have gone a long way to balance this and really make it drinkable.

I like the bottle, but that is pretty much the only thing I can say I am pleased with. The flavor tastes like a slight step up from a typical light lager. Better than a Budweiser but not by nearly as much as I would like. I can't say that I hate this beer but I really don't see a need to import this, there are so many drinkable domestic lagers.

Final Score: 72% (Drinkable. Nothing Unique. Poland Must Have Better Beer.)

Beer Review: River Horse Lager

2010-02-08T21:10:00.002-05:00

River Horse Brewing Company River Horse Lager

The flagship beer of South Jersey's great River Horse Brewery. I am definitely a fan of this company. I have heard they have been often criticized for having uninteresting and mediocre beers but I must have missed that time. Every beer I have had from them has been loaded with flavor and the rotating "Brewer's Reserve" line has been filled with big, memorable beers. The lager pours a cloudy golden color with a moderately sized head. Aroma is pure malt.

The flavor is striking. Touted as an "ungespundet hefetrub", this lager is deep. I had to do some googling on this term because I have never encountered it before. I think it means unfiltered and matured out in the open, rather than sealed off. If someone knows, feel free to let me know. The malt flavor on this beer is amazing. Large grain flavors and aromas rise out of the golden clouds and dominate this beer. Some bitterness is provided by a gentle hopping but nothing too noticeable.

Don't fall into the trap of assuming that just because it is called a lager that it is boring. I have been guilty of this more than once. This is a deep beer that should be respected. Much more than a filler for a variety pack. I could definitely see myself getting a six pack of this now and then. Very drinkable.

Final Score: 86% (Complex, Unique, and Drinkable. A Great Choice.)

Beer Review: Flying Dog Raging Bitch

2010-02-01T22:00:00.003-05:00

Flying Dog Brewing Company Raging Bitch Belgian Style India Pale Ale

This is an exciting offering. Not too often that you find this style. I hope it becomes more common. The name is awesome and is perfectly complimented by resident artist Ralph Steadman's badass bottle art. Who doesn't like a little gonzo art with their beer? The bitch pours out a medium amber color with loads of lacing around the glass. Aroma is nothing but hops and Belgian spicy yeast. Very inviting. At 8.3% ABV this beer is no joke.

The flavor is excellent. Exactly as I had hoped. Alternates between a very bitter aggressive hop profile and what tastes like a Belgian Dubble. The hops do seem to dominate the beer but that is how it should be. A raging bitch needs to be a bitch to your tongue. Seems appropriate to me. The Belgian side of this ale is very sweet, spicy, and alcoholic. There is just a lot going on here. Very complex.

When I am craving a Belgian ale and do not want to sacrifice hoppy goodness this is the perfect beer. I don't taste a single cut corner. This is a big beer done right and at a great price. $8.39 a six pack is very reasonable for a beer of this caliber. I am not sure what the availability of this brew is but I encourage everyone to get this before it is gone. I can't even find a real flaw. I declare this case worthy.

Final Score: 95% (This Bitch Is Raging. Not for the timid.)

Beer Review: Peroni Beer

2010-01-25T20:30:00.003-05:00

S.p.A Birra Peroni Brewing Company Peroni Beer

Finally, got a chance to try this Italian import that I have seen popping up more and more. While I know Italy has a local microbrewery scene this is the only brush with Italian brewing that I have encountered. The green bottle is an immediate loss of a couple points but not the biggest deal. I have had great beers in green bottles. The brew pours a light golden color with a very white head. Classic pilsner look. Aroma of light malt. Not too much to smell.

The flavor is a dead ringer for Heineken. Light skunky flavor with a very light malt flavor. Some hoppiness but really nothing powerful. This is a very basic European import pilsner. Something that I am sure most people have had before. Just replace a Heineken label with Peroni and you are there.

I am not big on this beer. It seems like there are endless brands offering this same style of beer. I would like to be able to differentiate this beer but as I feared it is just another import clone. If you are a big Heineken fan give this a try but if you don't like skunky beer stay away. To me, there is nothing new to be found here. This is a disappointing offering from a country that produces such aromatic and flavorful cuisine and wine.

Final Score: 62% (Skunky and Boring. Been Down this Road Too Many Times.)

Beer Review: Köstritzer Schwarzbier

2010-01-19T21:15:00.003-05:00

Köstritzer Schwarzbier Brewery Köstritzer Schwarzbier Lager

Sorry for the delay in another review, been busier than usual. Doesn't mean I have been drinking less, just writing less. The Black lager is one of my favorite styles of beer as it is rich on roasted malt and obscenely drinkable. If you are lucky, it will even have some depth. Do not be fooled by the appearance. The lager pours a very dark mahogany color with a light brown head. I get a little bit of alcohol in the aroma but nothing too crazy. Not like an Imperial Stout which will clear you right up.

This is tasty. Barely has any viscosity. The mouthfeel is light and airy. Strong chocolate flavors going on here. Very light carbonation also which I think is a plus. I have no need for extra bubbles. Sweet caramel flavors come through as well. Almost like drinking a very light hot chocolate that will still put hair on your chest. Who doesn't want more hair on their chest? The hop flavors are lacking but typically they are toned down when doing a black lager. Still, I would like more.

The originators of the style produced a damn good product here. Personally, I like some of the American versions better (Sam Adams Black Lager stands out) but I can't bring myself to pan this just because it isn't the best. This is a solid example of how a cold fermented lager goes down easy. Flavor doesn't have to be sacrificed. If you want something dark and not too heavy this will hit the spot.

Final Score: 83% ( Sweet and Dark. Not Too Deep. Average for the Style.)

Beer Review: Saranac Maple Porter

2009-11-20T23:53:00.002-05:00

Matt Brewing Company Saranac Maple Porter

This is a beer I am excited for. If it is anything like the caramel porter I am in for a treat. I have never heard of or encountered a maple flavored beer but I have to say I really like the idea. Sweet maple flavors combined with dark roasted porter can't be bad. This may be a novelty beer but I really don't care. All I care about is how it tastes. I never said I was too good for novelties. The porter comes out a dark amber color with a solid white head. Aroma is pure maple.

First sip... wow. Like the stellar caramel porter the maple flavor is not hidden at all. Even if it is added flavor this is not lacking anything maple. I feel bombarded with breakfast flavors that I very rarely actually eat. I am more of an eggs and meat guy than a pancake and syrup guy but this really works. Ironically, the typical beer flavor of this beer is dominated by the maple. Sounds bad but in my opinion it really isn't. I crawled up this beer mountain for maple and the top is by no means lacking. I may be ranting but it also could be beer bliss.

This is a great beer. One that I would buy a case of if I had the option. I wouldn't want this year round but this is a great winter treat. The beer lives up to its name and offers a rare flavor experience that inspires greatness. This is a great part of the 12 beers of winter and one I will try to enjoy as much as possible. Drink this with breakfast and you may win the lottery by lunch time.

Final Score: 93% (Unique and Flavorful. Dark, Rich, and Full Maple.)

Beer Review: Saranac Rye IPA

2009-11-17T21:56:00.002-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Rye IPA

My second review of the new brews in the 12 beers of winter mix pack from F.X. Matt. The Saranac line seems to be including more rye beers lately and I can't help but be happy about this. Rye is underused and too rarely experienced. The spicy character really adds some depth to the malt flavor that can't be replicated by any yeast that I am aware of. This India pours a golden color with a nice full head. Lacing abound.

Sweet and spicy. The flavor in this brew is awesome. Very aggresive hop flavors swirl around your palette while the rye malt brings you back home. This is a big, bold, and hoppy beer that is as close to balanced as you really want an IPA to be. One of these days I have to get a nice rye sandwich and pair these up. Maybe with some Russian dressing to mix things up.

If you are craving a serious helping of hops and want something a little different from your usual IPA this will hit the spot. I love these mix packs. F.X. Matt has the right idea with the constant rotation of their brews. New and long lost brews really keep things interesting.

Final Score: 87% (Spicy and Hoppy. Not a Single Punch Pulled. Delicious.)

Beer Review: Saranac Black Lager

2009-11-17T20:23:00.003-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Black Lager

My first review from the new 12 Beers of Winter from Saranac. I always love Black Lagers. This iconic Bavarian style is always rich in flavor yet immensely drinkable. A fantastic choice for winter sessioning. I hope this lives up to my high expectations. The lager pours a very dark amber color, not quite black but damn close. Aroma is loaded with chocolate.

First taste impressions.... very drinkable. Smooth with a very rich mouthfeel. Slightly malty flavors high you first with a very creamy carbonation feel following. I also taste a very large hop bite. This is somewhat similar to last years India Brown Ale, just tweaked slightly off to the malty side. Roasted caramel flavors are floating around but you really have to do some digging.

This is an enjoyable beer despite it not quite tasting like a traditional black lager. This definitely tastes more like a brown ale brewed with lager yeast. I expected a little more depth but this is by no means a bad beer.

Final Score: 71% (Lackluster and Light on Flavor. Needs More Roasted Malt.)

Beer Review: Highland Gaelic Ale

2009-10-15T21:54:00.002-04:00

Highland Brewing Company Gaelic Ale

My first Highland review. This is a craft brewery located in Virginia that is not normally available in New Jersey unless you have some very generous connections who are willing to drive down to Asheville and pick up a variety pack. I am very fortunate. This is the brewery's flagship beer so it seems fitting that this is my first review. This it touted as a balanced ale with a generous amount of malt. The appearance is exactly as pictured. Dark amber in color with a decent sized fluffy white head. Aroma of sweet caramel and some hop spiciness. Very appetizing.

The flavor is fantastic. I love when I find a really well balanced ale that meets both of my cravings (malt and hops) and this brew falls into that rare category. The lightly roasted sweet caramel flavor really adds great depth to the beer. You can almost chew the beer, very rich and full. Nothing feels watered down. The hop flavor is also in full form here. Spicy and bitter, the hops stand up to the mammoth task of balancing the malt without burning out your taste buds. This is not far off from being a very balanced IPA.

This is a very sessionable and deep ale that is certainly worthy of being the flagship beer of any brewery. If you are lucky enough to have this in your area I certainly recommend supporting Highland. Judging from this beer they are also well worth traveling for. I love a great beer. The only downside is the limited availability.

Final Score: 93% (Outstanding. Worth a Long Journey.)

Beer Battle!: Budweiser VS Miller High Life

2009-10-13T20:05:00.004-04:00

Beer Battle I: Budweiser (The King) vs. Miller High Life (The Champagne)

Time for my first beer battle. This time its Budweiser versus the High Life. Blind taste testing is the only way to go here and I will rate them on a scale of 1 to 5 in the areas of flavor, aroma, and sessionability. One will be beer "A", the other beer "B". This is the first of hopefully many more to come...

Aroma:

This is a tough one to call, both very similar but I have to hand this to beer "A". Slightly more of a grainy aroma. No real hop aromas in either one. I always find it really hard to get much in the aroma department when drinking rice malt light lagers but there has to be a winner here.

A: 3 B: 2
Flavor:

Another very close call but A just has a deeper flavor. A has a rich malt flavor compared to "B" which just tastes like a toned down version of "A". "A" has a crisper aftertaste while "B" is a little sweeter. Not much going on in the hop department. At least nothing which sets one apart from the other.

A:3: B:2
Sessionability:

If I was to reach for another one which one would I go for? Hmm... I have to go with "B". The tables seemed to have turned. "A" just starts to taste watery after a short while and "B" still maintains its flavor after a few sips.

A:2 B:3
Results:

Looks like "A" wins by a very narrow margin. This was much harder than I thought it would be. Fun, but tricky. The winner is.... Budweiser! I am honestly surprised, I thought Miller High Life would edge out the King of Beers but the opposite happened. Never again will I buy a High Life. Who needs Champagne when you are the King?

Final Score: A: 8 B:7

Beer Review: Blue Moon Harvest Moon

2009-09-30T19:54:00.002-04:00

Blue Moon Brewing Company Harvest Moon Pumpkin Ale

Fall seasonals are by far my favorite. These months just don't last long enough. While Blue Moon may be owned by Molson-Coors they produce some decent craft beers and I have yet to try this creation. I have to first give them credit for very cool bottle art. It may not be very important in the grand scheme but I believe everything is part of the whole. I am very fickle about pumpkin ales. I love drinking them in the fall but if they have too much spice I quickly get disgusted. Sessioning with these can be very difficult. It is a very fine line to walk. The Harvest Moon pours a medium amber color with a sizable head that lingers for the duration of the glass. Very faint malty aroma though I do have a cold so you probably shouldn't go by my nose at the moment.

Now for the first taste. Very surprising. This is exceptionally balanced with the rich malt flavor and the delicate spicing. This may be the session pumpkin ale I have been looking for. The spicing is noticeable and delicious but will definitely not cause my tongue to recoil. The pumpkin flavor is actually pronounced in this where as other pumpkin ales tend to overpower this flavor with malt or allspice.

This is a superb example of what this American original fall seasonal should be. Very mouthwatering. Just because it is owned by one of the big boys doesn't mean you should dismiss it. The beer world would do well to keep an open mind. The Blue Moon people hit all the marks with this one.

Final Score: 90% (Solid, Balanced, and Delicious. A Masterful Pumpkin Ale.)

Beer Review: Bud Select 55

2009-09-05T21:46:00.002-04:00

Anheuser-Busch Inc. Budweiser Select 55

This is a new one for me. I don't know how long this has been out but it is most certainly an attempt to fight back at Miller's "MGD 64". With a whopping nine calorie difference they are most certainly coming out with guns blazing (there is sarcasm here). Before I go into depth with this I do want to point out that I will review this brew based on the style that was attempted. I won't compare it to a Triple IPA because everyone should already know that this is not going to have that much depth. This is a light light beer (or double light as I would like to call it). The 55 pours like any other Budweiser product with a light golden color and a short lived head. I can't smell anything besides a slight grainy aroma.

The flavor of this is almost impressive. Hear me out. This doesn't taste a whole lot lighter than a coors/bud light and it manages to cut out roughly half the calories. Calorie conscious people who enjoy very light beer would do well to try this. However, the alcohol content is an extremely low 2.3% ABV. So if you are attempting to get a buzz you should certainly look elsewhere. Also, if you enjoy the taste of a full bodied beer you should definitely avoid this. Bohemian style Pilsner this is not. This is more yellow seltzer than anything else. With maybe a little skunk flavor to mix things up.

The main problem I have with this personally is that I just can't see a need for it. Are there really people who drink Bud Light and ask if there is anything lighter? NA beers have more flavor than this. I do, however, think that the target demographic for this beer will love it. People who want to be seen drinking a beer but don't like the taste of it will never have it better. Experiment with this if you like but don't complain to me when you realize you spent the same amount of money on half the beer.

Final Score: 60% (Successful in Being Light, Failure in Retaining Flavor)

Beer Review: Guinness Draught

2009-07-21T20:40:00.003-04:00

St. James's Gate Brewery Guinness Draught

This is the most classic stout on the planet. It isn't the original but it's prevalence throughout the world is impressive to say the least. Thank you Diageo. Having the innovative widget in the can is awesome. Such a nice touch. The nitrogen head forms perfectly and laces all over the glass (does anyone really not know what a Guinness looks like?). I don't get very much in the aroma department.

The flavor is ridiculously smooth for a stout, I think due in a large part to the nitrogen used for nitrogenation (carbonation doesn't make sense). The majority of the flavor is all coffee with chocolate thrown in. The roasted malt does it's job but doesn't go overboard. Some hop bitterness in the aftertaste. This all goes down so easy, makes it seem like this is a watered down version of what a stout should be. Isn't a porter a lighter version of a stout? This really should be called a porter if you ask me.

It may not be very deep but it does provide a great introduction to the darker beer styles. This is a beer that everyone should try at least once. For me, this is a beer that I will get occasionally in bars but really won't seek out. It isn't bad at all, just doesn't stand out after having experienced a couple of very rich stouts.

Final Score: 73% (Classic and Drinkable. Not Very Complex.)

Beer Review: Mama's LIttle Yella Pils

2009-07-21T20:12:00.003-04:00

Oskar Blues Brewing Company Mama's Little Yella Pils

Love those cans. This is a definite craft beer take on a commonly watered down style. The name will try to tell you otherwise though. The pils pours a bright yellow color with a long lasting moderate head. The malt aroma dominates everything. Smells similar to how unfermented malt tastes. Very appealing.

The flavor of this yella is everything I could have hoped for. The bright malt sweetness hits you quickly and with force right before the hops take charge. This is one of the most floral tasting beers in the world. Oskar Blues really captures the hop aroma and flavor properly (the cans help).

I would definitely place this in the top three pilsners I have yet to try. Right alongside Stoudts and Victory. This is one of the best beers you will find for summer and I urge anyone who can find it to buy a case. This will refresh you in even the hottest weather. Not a bit of taste missing either. In my opinion this is one of the most consistent and outstanding breweries in the country and any can detractors would do well to try these.

Final Score: 95% (World Class Pilsner. Mama Never Had This.)

Beer Review: Guinness 250 Anniversary Stout

2009-07-14T21:34:00.003-04:00

St. James's Gate Brewery Guinness 250 Anniversary Stout Ale

It is a rare year (or decade?) when Guinness comes out with a new brew. This stout is to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Sir Arthur Guinness signing the lease to the St. James's Gate brewery in Dublin. I do wish this was served in the classic widget can that the Guinness Draught inhabits. It may be little more than a novelty but it really is the little things that count. The new kid pours a very dark mahogany color with a with an average sized caramel head. The aroma is compiled mainly of roasted malt and alcohol. Classic stout.

The flavor really stands out from the original Guinness despite them both being Irish stouts. The 250 is really sweet. Large amounts of roasted caramel all over my palette. Very enjoyable and surprisingly drinkable. This is more of a cross between a traditional schwarzbier and a traditional stout. The sweet caramal flavor really combines well with the roasted barley. Even a slight grainy aftertaste. The hops are there only for bittering and you probably won't pay much attention to them.

There is nothing to complain about with this beer besides its limited edition status. I would really like to see this offered indefinitely. What would be even better would be to have this offered on draft as widely available as the classic Guinness Draught. Even throw in the Extra Stout while you are at it. The original is classic but I can tell you that I would be more likely to order stouts if there were more choices available in bars. This is a winner.

Final Score: 86% (Rich, Sweet, and Roasted. Manages to Stand Out.)

Beer Review: Anchor Summer Beer

2009-07-05T22:21:00.004-04:00

Anchor Brewing Company Anchor Summer Beer

This is a classic beer. Although this is my first time trying it, this is the first American wheat beer brewed in modern times. Thank you Fritz Maytag for getting the ball rolling. This wheat beer pours a clear golden color with a very fluffy white laced head. A ton of wheat in the aroma.

The flavor is spicy and smooth at the same time, most likely due to the large percentage (over 50) of wheat malt used. What sets this apart from other wheat beers is the lack of noticeable citrus, banana, or clove flavors. You get wheat, some hop flavors, and a tiny bit of barley malt. Nothing too exotic by today's craft standards.

If there ever was a sessionable wheat beer this would be it. Exactly as a summer beer should be. This definitely has nowhere near the depth of an Imperial Stout but this really hits the spot on a hot day. More than enough character to keep thing interesting. If you are in the mood for a very clean and refreshing wheat beer this is a great choice.

Final Score: 80% (Refreshing, Spicy, and Smooth. Very Enjoyable.)

Beer Review: McSorley's Irish Pale Ale

2009-07-05T21:42:00.002-04:00

McSorley's Brewery McSorley's Irish Pale Ale

This is to my knowledge my first Irish Pale Ale. The Sorley pours a not so pale amber color with a quickly fading head. Roasted aromas seep into my head. I know of the famous McSorley's pub in NYC and I assume this is the same brew served at the old ale house. I wonder how close this comes to the actual ale served on tap.

This is very different from your standard pale ale. Loaded with roasted malt flavors and having a very creamy mouthfeel, this beer will certainly wake you up. The hop presence is a bit subdued when compared to the robust malt flavor. This is almost a pale ale/porter hybrid. Hard to find a comparable beer, this is very unique. It does seem to be lacking some depth.

If you crave a dark roasted beer but don't want to go all out with a porter or stout this would be a good choice. The roasted malt presence is very strong and tends to dominate every sip. Despite the roasted flavor I would still say this is fairly balanced. The ale never seems to taste overly bitter or sweet, usually somewhere in between. Easy to follow one sip with another.

Final Score: 74% (Good, but Fairly Simple. A Solid Session Beer.)

Beer Review: Licher Pilsner

2009-06-21T21:29:00.002-04:00

Licher Private Brewery Licher Pilsner Lager

Another very generous gift beer. This is a very authentic German pilsner, I can tell from the untranslated website. Which has a surprising amount of content for a beer website and if you feel comfortable navigating it you can find some unique stuff http://www.licher.de. The pilsner pours a light golden color with a very long lasting and fluffy white head. Lacing is in force here. Aroma is rich in sweet golden malt and sharp hop spice. I also want to point out that they use the superior amber bottle rather than the green so often found with imported German brews.

The flavor is exactly as it should be. Uncomplicated lager goodness. I love a good pilsner, the drinkability combined with the sharp spicy hop flavors and smooth malt really can hit the spot. I drink a ton of these in the summer, especially when it's incredibly hot or humid out. You will find this to be one of the more balanced pilsners with a very noticeable hop flavor. Definitely on the spicier Saaz hops side of things.

This is a very high quality classic pilsner and one that I don't think will disappoint. If I was to pick an area where this brew differed from other pilsners I would again say the hop profile is deeper than most, you really get some bitterness and flavor. I am not sure how much this retails for but if you happen to find it (not that common yet) it is worth a shot.

Final Score: 85% (Sharp Spicy Hop Flavor, Rich Malt, High Drinkability.)

Beer Review: Simpler Times Lager

2009-06-18T20:56:00.003-04:00

Minhas Craft Brewery Simpler Times Lager

This is a beer that I have yet to find in stores and the only reason I possess it is due to the generosity of a very beer friendly individual who is often feeding me interesting malted beverages. Nice to see more cans, I like the preservative and lightweight quality of cans. If you are poring the beer into a glass why go with a bottle? The lager pours a slightly hazy yellow color with a quickly receding head. Aroma is interesting with a full full malt profile with a sharp alcohol kick. The surprisingly high 6.2% ABV is noted.

The malt flavor in this brew is one of a kind. I have never tasted anything quite like this. It has almost a fruity malt flavor with possibly a little bit of corn (or corn like) flavors swirling around. Very hard to describe. I wonder if this was brewed intentionally with any "off" flavors to create this unique quality. Almost has the same diacetyl taste you can pick out of a good ESB. I don't taste a large hop presence but I also don't think that would be keeping with the retro lager (real category?) style.

The most ironic thing I find about this beer is that while it describe simple times, the malt flavor is nothing close to simple. If this is just some basic all barley malt lager then I will bow my head and admit I was reading too much into this but I really feel that this is something unique. It is definitely a drinkable lager and one that I would certainly consider getting if I can make it to Trader Joe's. This brew really makes me wish I could taste the extinct brews of yesteryear, Rheingold being near the top of the list followed by Ballantine's IPA.

Final Score: 82% (Great For The Style. Drinkable but Not Boring.)

Beer Review: Flying Fish Farmhouse Summer Ale

2009-05-27T20:47:00.002-04:00

Flying Fish Brewing Company Farmhouse Summer Ale

I can't believe this is my first Flying Fish review. I like to buy local and they are located in the memorable town of Cherry Hill. The main thing I think of when I think of Cherry Hill is that the mall there offers very cheap sushi. A big plus in my book. This is also a very unique offering. You will find a ton of summer ales this time of year. Few that also happen to use Belgian malt and are bottle conditioned (aka carbonated naturally in the bottle using the yeast). The farmhouse brew pours a surprisingly clear golden color with a very solid head. Doesn't last for a ridiculous amount of time but I wouldn't really expect/desire this in a summer offering. Aroma of yeast, wheat, and cloves. Inviting.

The flavor is loaded with natural yeast flavor. I get a lot of clovey goodness upfront followed with a wheaty lemon flavor and some sweet barley malt. Not much in the hop department besides a lingering earthy aftertaste but it really isn't needed. I don't really see the farmhouse connection since this is noticeably different from a traditional Belgian Saison (farmhouse) ale. It may not be traditional but the depth of flavor renders any style questions negligible.

This is delicious. A very much above average summer ale for a very reasonable price ($7.99 a six pack). I recommend this to anyone who wants an easy drinking summer beer but wants some exceptional depth (who wouldn't want this?). This could easily become a summer staple for me. Don't miss out!

Final Score: 91% (Easy Drinking and Complex. A Belgian Creation. In Jersey.)

Beer Review: Saranac Summer Brew

2009-05-17T23:07:00.002-04:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Summer Brew

I have never had a Radler (lager and lemonade) before and was a bit hesitant. I enjoy lemony flavors that can come out from certain strains of yeast but I don't know how I feel about mixing lemonade in. Seems too easy. Pours a VERY light yellow color with a minimal head.

Flavor is sweet. Loads of lemonade with a bit of malt and hop notes going on in the background. I really don't like when beer flavors are in the background. Especially when drinking a beer. There really isn't much to describe here, the malt flavor is paralyzed and the hops are in a coma. This is only for someone who doesn't like beer and is a huge fan of lemonade. But if that is the case why not just drink a lemonade?

I am glad they are still experimenting and trying to bring new flavors to America but this one can stay in Europe. This isn't horrible but it really doesn't taste like a beer. Drinkable only on the hottest of days and even then I would go for a pilsner over this. Lemonade and sweetness needs to be toned down a few notches. This might be good for the style but I really can't give a good score if there isn't anything positive to note.

Final Score: 55% (Very Lemony. Where is the Beer?)

Beer Review: Ottakringer Helles

2009-05-17T21:55:00.002-04:00

Ottakringer Brewery Helles Lager

My friend from Austria recently brought two cans of this back. He said it is the equivalent to a Budweiser over there, being prevalent in almost every bar. The Vienna stunner pours a slightly hazy golden yellow color. Short lived but noticeable head without any lacing. Aroma is nonexistent.

The flavor is OK. Tastes very similar to a standard Euro lager (Heineken or Becks) with few differences. Clean malt flavor with a very brief hop punch. By brief I mean by the time you notice it, the flavor is gone. The malt flavor is a bit richer than a Euro lager but not a whole lot of difference. Bit of boiled vegetable taste going on. Fortunately not skunky.

Definitely a step up from the bland Budweiser but really nothing that you couldn't get in America in a better form. If you find yourself in Austria and want to try a domestic its worth a shot but don't expect to be wowed. I don't hate it but it doesn't get too much love. I am sure Austria has much better beer to offer.

Final Score: 61% (Light on Hops. Light in Malt. Light on Score.)

Beer Review: Long Trail Ale

2009-05-17T21:21:00.003-04:00

Long Trail Brewing Company Long Trail Ale

The flagship brew from the very Eco-friendly Long Trail Brewing Co. I really admire their efforts to go green and still release a very affordable product ($7.99 a six pack). The ale pours a rich amber color with a long lasting head. Lacing is in the picture. The rich aroma is loaded with malt, malt, and more malt.

The flavor is extremely pleasing. The altbier style, when done correctly, delivers all the complexity of an ale with the balanced refreshing taste of a lager. This does indeed deliver. Loads of amber malt with a quick sharp hop bite followed by a clean creamy yeast finish. This really delivers on the amber malt, not as rich as the spectacular double bag but will still get you with loads of malty sweetness.

This is one of the best altbiers I have ever had. This is defintely the kind of beer you could buy a whole case (or keg) of and never once regret the decision. I would still pick the double bag over this but it is a close call and on warmer days this might win out. Everyone should try this at least once.

Final Score: 91% (Altbier Done Right. Great Job!)

Beer Review: Radeberger Pilsner

2009-05-03T21:37:00.002-04:00

Radeberger Exportbierbrauerei Radeberger Pilsner Lager

Quite the name. I really don't want to type that again. I love a good pilnser and late spring is a great time to get them. This authentic German pilsner pours a light golden straw color with a very solid head. Not much in the lacing department. Aroma is very malty, no noticable hop aromas.

The flavor is solid. A surprisingly matly flavor hits you up front and is then countered with a moderate bitter hop flavor. Nothing too crazy but this is very well balanced and drinkable. The malt flavor is very deep and compelling. I don't know if its the water or some special mashing process but the flavor of the golden malt is just very pleasing. The hop bitterness really works well. This is how a pilsner should be.

This is a great pilsner. There are equally good American produced pilsners that are readily available but this is a very good alternative. While the style may not have originated in Germany, this is one of the best examples I have found. If you want a lighter session beer with a large amount of flavor this is one to seek out.

Final Score: 88% (Refreshing and Malty. Just Enough Hop Spice. Expertly Done.)

Beer Review: Saranac Rye Pilsener

2009-04-27T22:40:00.002-04:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Rye Pilsener Lager

The final new release of the Saranac 12 Beers of Summer. This is probably the release I was looking forward to the most as I love a good rye beer and always enjoy classic styles redone with a little bit of rye malt. I still am not certain of the official spelling of this style of beer (pilsener or pilsner? I certainly see both.) but I will continue on. Pours a golden/bronze color with a light head. Minimal malt aroma going on.

The flavor is very well done. I think this may be the standout of the new releases. The rye malt melds well with the very rich golden malt to create a unique combination that is very drinkable. Hoppiness is also here in full force. All the spicy hop goodness that you enjoy in a traditional pilsener is here.

Overall, this has fantastic drinkability and a great rye malt complexity that is hard to come by. This is the one new Saranac brew that I think has enough strength to stand on its own and get sold in six packs. This is a great addition to the mix pack and will be very thirst quenching on those particularly hot days.

Final Score: 86% (Deep and Thirst Quenching. What a Summer Release Should Be.)

Beer Review: Saranac Pale Pale Ale

2009-04-27T22:36:00.002-04:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Pale Pale Ale

Time for the most entertaining of brews. It’s hard to ignore the humor of the pale pale ale. A pale ale that is actually very pale? They must have hired some good writers in Utica. I like it. The pale pale (or pp, yes I am mature) pours as promised a pale golden color with a very sturdy head. Some slight lacing near the top of the head. Aroma of fresh straw and grass. Real farmy.

This beer is satisfying. I wasn’t sure what to expect but this really surprised me. There is plenty of hop flavor to go around. Certainly equal hop levels to what you might find in a standard pale ale. No cut corners here. The malt is also in force but with the golden pilsner flavor rather than the amber malt most pale ale drinkers may be expecting. This is very similar to a pilsner just with more hopping.

Overall, this is a great addition to the summer pack. I do slightly miss the toasted amber malt but this brew really delivers on its name. If you ever wanted a lighter malt to accompany your pale ale this will please. Very tasty and earthy but could use some more sweetness to counter the strong hoppy backbone. I like the concept of this brew but the malt levels really need to be upped.

Final Score: 81% (Light Color and Hoppy. Could Use More Malt.)

Beer Review: Saranac Amber Wheat

2009-04-27T22:30:00.001-04:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Amber Wheat

Another of the new releases contained in the 12 Beers of Summer pack. I suppose this may be the hefeweizen replacement. While I love that beer, I am always up for trying something new. The only question is whether amber will be too much for the summer. Pours a very cloudy/unfiltered amber color with a very robust head. A fair amount of lacing on the glass with a solid aroma of sweet amber malt.

Flavor is very good. Copious quantities of amber malt really allow a depth to this brew that many of the blonde/golden wheat beers seldom achieve. The unfiltered nature of the beer also allows a nice refreshing yeast quality that really goes down well on the hot days. This is similar to a standard summer ale, just with more yeast, and much more amber malt. Hops are not here in force.

In the end, it really comes down to two things. This is one of the most drinkable summer releases I have had so far. This is also very rich in amber malt to the point that it makes my mouth water as I write this. I don’t miss the hops at all right now. This brew combines the drinkability of a light blonde weizen with the rich malt body of an amber ale. You will enjoy this.

Final Score: 85% (Mouth Watering. Unfiltered. Need More Than Two.)

Beer Review: Saranac Helles

2009-04-24T21:49:00.002-04:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Helles Lager

A new Saranac 12 Beers of Summer! Rejoice warm weather is here! With it comes 4 new Saranac releases. Exciting times we live in. The helles style is very appropriate for summer with its light hopping and golden malt goodness. Pours an EXTREMELY light golden color with a very solid head. Lots of lacing all over the glass. Aroma of sweet malt and maybe a little alcohol (seems odd).

The flavor is unfortunately underwhelming. Gotta love two consecutive double U words. The malt is very light and sweet as it should be but really offers no complexity. Same is true for the hopping. There is a slight bit of bitterness but really no standout flavors or aromas. There really isn't much to talk about. This reminds me of a rice beer.

This is one of my favorite styles of beer and I wanted to love this but it really doesn't deliver. I get a sweet malt flavor with very little else. Is it a good addition to the summer mix pack? Yes, it is drinkable and good on a hot day. Does this bring anything new to the table? No, this is uninteresting and about equal to an unskunked Becks or Heineken. I would not buy this in a six pack.

Final Score: 60% (No Character. Couldn't Pick It Out Of A Lineup.)

Beer Review: Magic Hat Wacko

2009-04-24T21:10:00.002-04:00

Magic Hat Brewing Company Wacko Summer Seasonal Ale

This is a very unique offering. A summer ale brewed with beet juice. The result is as wacky as the name and the big pink head is very eye catching. If there was ever a beer that makes you feel completely unmanly this would be it. Don’t get me wrong. I like pink just as much as the next guy but this brew really pushes the boundaries of what beer can look like. My first pink beer. The aroma is not very robust with almost nothing detectable. Maybe some sweetness provided by the beet juice. Very hard to tell. No hops and no malt.

Fortunately, the flavor is not as bland as the aroma. There is a definite contribution from the beet juice. A very clean sweetness hits you up front before the malt and hops come in to play. The malt flavor is fairly clean with a little bit of cereal in the aftertaste. Tastes better initially then gets less enjoyable as it sits on your tongue. The hopping is adequate for balance but really provides minimal flavor.

Overall, this is a drinkable summer beer that offers a bit of a twist on light summer ale. I don’t even think you have to be a big beet fan to enjoy this. The impact on flavor is very small. Just don’t expect any big malt flavors or any hop presence. On exceptionally hot days I would strongly consider getting this again. Everyone should try this at least once for the novelty.

Final Score: 81% (Full of Character. Light on Flavor.)

Beer Review: Saranac Adirondack Lager

2009-04-24T20:39:00.006-04:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Adirondack Lager

This lager is the flagship brew for the Saranac lineup. At least according to the website. It seems to me that the Pale Ale is more prevalent and shown in more Saranac publications including their newsletter. Yes, I am a proud member of Club Saranac. The lager pours a light copper color with a very foamy white head. Very minimal in the aroma department. I get a little bit of the characteristic Saranac yeast odor but really nothing else.

The flavor is very straightforward. This is a classic German style amber lager. Very drinkable and with a sharp hop bite after the initial sweet amber malt. The malt is extremely sweet and full but is balanced very well with the sharp hot finish.

This is not a deep or complex beer by any stretch of the imagination but it certainly is drinkable. There is enough flavor here to keep things interesting but I probably won’t buy this very often. If I want a flavorful session beer I can go elsewhere. There are other Saranac brews that would fill this role much more effectively.

Final Score: 70% (Not Enough Depth or Character. Not a Standout.)

Beer Review: Sam Adams Irish Red

2009-04-09T22:24:00.005-04:00

Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams Irish Red Ale

Time for another Irish Red. Enjoying them while they are around. This used to be a style that I really didn't care for but I have definitely grown a taste for these. The malt flavors are generally very hard to compete with. This Red pours a deep copper/redish color with a sizable tan head. Aroma of toasted caramel malt and oven baked bread. Lets see how Boston's IRA stands up.

Flavor is nice. Immediately hits you with very sweet toasted malt flavors then follows up with a little spicy hop bitterness. Fairly balanced but I would like to see a little less sweet on the malt and a little more hop presence. It becomes too sweet after a few sips. This has flavor, just no drinkability to go along with it.

This brew hits all the style points and is certainly better than some IRA offerings but fails to wow me. My Irish Red of choice is still the Saranac version. This really isn't that much better than Anheuser-Busch's offering and you would safe a few bucks if you picked that up instead of this. Still, better than a Killian's or a Smithwick's.

Final Score: 76% (Tasty and Sweet. Needs More Balance.)

Beer Reivew: Sixpoint Eight Days of Wheat

2009-04-05T22:49:00.002-04:00

Sixpoint Craft Ales Eight Days of Wheat Ale

Picked up a growler of this from the Whole Foods on Bowery St. Great beer destination. They constantly rotate their tap selections and any place that offers growlers is way up there in my book of great stores. I almost always go for Sixpoint when available because they are local and they are very limited in the bottle department. You almost always need to either sample their offerings in the bar or bring them home in a growler. The eight days pours a very cloudy copper color with a very strong head. Very unique aroma going on that has loads of fruit, hops, and yeast.

The flavor is one of the most unique wheat flavors I have every experienced. Very fruity and has almost a tropical flavor to it. Hard to describe but this is great for warm weather. Has coconut and pineapple flavors swirling around. I would love to get my hands on this yeast. The wheat flavors are definitely there too. You won't get a typical hefeweizen flavor but you will get something different and in my opinion better. The wheat provides a very rich bready flavor that is malty but not overly sweet. Hops are there in force but do not overpower anything.

Balance is just right. This beer has everything going for it and is a great beer to show something new to someone who thinks they have seen just about everything wheat beers have to offer. You get hops, malt, wheat, and yeast. All in balance and done with expert proficiency. The only flaw I can find is the difficulty I may have finding this in the future.

Final Score: 96% (My Favorite Wheat Beer. Balanced, Complex, Unique, and Drinkable!)

Beer Reivew: Arcadia Cocoa Loco

2009-03-26T18:02:00.002-04:00

Arcadia Brewing Company Cocoa Loco Stout

My first encounter with Arcadia's big beer series. This is of the 2006 vintage. I am excited about this creation. I love a chocolaty stout and this one should be able to deliver. The loco pours a very dark brown color with one of the darkest heads I have ever seen. Impressive work. Aroma is loads of chocolate. Very exciting.

The flavor of this brew is amazing. Rich chocolaty flavors immediately come through and end very smoothly. The lactose addition really makes this drinkable. Aging could have helped a bit too. This is that rare big beer that you just want to keep drinking and drinking. The molasses flavor stays in the background but does surface after the initial shock of chocolate. The sweet flavors swirling around in the glass add plenty of complexity. Just don't expect a very pronounced hop presence.

You will not be disappointed with this beer. Occasionally, I will try a beer advertised as chocolaty and be very disappointed. I was not with this. This has what I feel is a maximum chocolate concentration for beer. The use of different fermentables really add a tremendous amount of depth to this crazy ale.

Final Score: 95% (One of the Best Stouts Around. Chocolaty Paradise.)

Beer Review: Magic Hat H I.P.A.

2009-03-25T17:00:00.002-04:00

Magic Hat Brewing Company "H" India Pale Ale

All brewing companies should release two different IPAs like Magic Hat. A hoppier version (the H) and a more malty version the year round IPA. I love a good seasonal release. The HIPA pours a hazy copper color with a ridiculously robust head. Loads of lacing all over the glass. Full citrusy aromas from even a weak sniff. This has all the right appearance characterisitics. Lets get down to the soul.

Hoppy flavors burst from this beer. This is a very rare kind of IPA. This has loads of hop flavor and aromas while not being overly bitter or undrinkable. Surprisingly thirst quenching. I think I could drink this all night (or day) and not burn out any essential tasting abilities. Very light on malt flavors but because this is drinkable I don't really mind as much as I might in other IPAs.

Definitely one of the best IPAs around. I would pick up some of this before summer rolls around. This was a great surprise and a solid example of a very hoppy beer that is extremely drinkable. A little more malt character would have taken this beer to the next level but I really don't know if you can add even a small amount of malt while still maintaining the crazy hop flavors showcased here. Get this!

Final Score: 90% (Wonderful IPA. Beats Most Hands Down.)

Beer Review: Saranac Stout

2009-03-21T23:29:00.004-04:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Stout Ale

This has been one that I have been awaiting for a while. I know that the Saranac Stout is included in the year-round Black and Tan but I really wanted to try the unadulterated Stout. Finally, the newly available "What Ales You?" variety 12 pack contains two bottles of the hard to find Stout. The brew pours very dark. Nearly opaque mahogany color with a strong tan head and loads of lacing everywhere. I don't get much in the aroma department. Maybe some coffee notes but nothing too overt.

The flavor is very roasted. On par with the style you will get loads of coffee and chocolate flavors coupled with strong hop bitterness. While this brew does conform to the style guidelines it does also have a unique milky creaminess that sets it apart from other Stouts. I also find the relatively low ABV of 4.8% really showcases the flavor of a solid stout. I find myself more and more liking the lower alcohol stouts more than the bigger beers. The roasted malt flavors seem to come out better without the alcohol flavor competition.

This is definitely one of the best Stouts around. I would call this a couple steps above (some may cry sacrilege) a Guinness. The roasted malt flavor with the very noticeable hop bitterness is extremely well done. You will certainly enjoy this brew and I will be sure to pick up more of the "What Ales You?" packs while they are still around.

Final Score: 87% (Great Stout. Drinkable, but Deep. Nice Addition)

Beer Review: Long Trail Double Bag

2009-03-21T22:27:00.002-04:00

Long Trail Brewing Company Double Bag Ale

About time I got around to reviewing some Long Trail products. They generally provide solid quality craft brews at very affordable prices (my favorite qualities). This is a very unique brew that comes highly recommended to me. I don't know what category or "style" to force this beer into but then again it really doesn't need to be compartmentalized and can be its own style. The double bag pours a clean amber color with a very solid bone white head. Some definite lacing around the glass. Aroma is pure, rich, and deep maltiness.

The flavor is very surprising. As advertised, you will not notice the robust alcohol level of 7.2%. The malt flavor really shines. I don't know how they accomplished this miracle of science but I imagine that a large amount of crystal malt was involved. The depth of the malt flavor in this brew is awesome. Malty sweet and slightly roasted flavors really raise the bar for strong ales. The hops are also here in force. Very robust citrus hop flavors come through to balance out the sweet malt flavors. Somewhat similar to a bigger Oktoberfest beer.

The "INDULGE IN MODERATION" warning on the label is actually a good idea. This is much more drinkable than you might expect for the ABV level and I could definitely see how someone could but these down really quickly and get into trouble. This is a delicious brew and one worthy of your drinking. If you want a fresh brew that has flavor to spare this is a great find. This is not going to last very long in my fridge. In fact, I think I may want another...

Final Score: 92% (Dangerously Drinkable. The Double Bag Abides.)

Beer Review: Brother Thelonious Ale

2009-03-08T19:01:00.002-04:00

North Coast Brewing Company Brother Thelonious Belgian Abbey Style Ale

Interesting idea for a beer release. North Coast donates two dollars for every case sold to the Thelonious Monk Institute to support Jazz music. I like it. I am also a huge fan of dark Belgian ales. Seems like a recipe for success. Pours a dark mahogany color with an off-white head. Lots of lacing all over the glass. Aroma is pure chocolate and spice. Very inviting.

Flavor is wonderful. Very complex chocolate and caramel malt flavors with that classic Belgian spiciness floating around. Hoppy flavors and bitterness are there but in the background and subdued. This beer really melts in your mouth if such a thing is possible. Really viscous in your mouth and then lightens up as it warms. Chocolate to caramel to spice. I even get some oaky flavors. Delicious.

This may be a hard one to find in Jersey but I really recommend picking up a bottle if you can. The fact that this supports Jazz music is also a huge plus. The high alcohol percentage (9.3%) will also ensure good aging if you feel so inclined. I doubt I would have the patience for that. This is one complex beer that will hit the spot. Worth every penny.

Final Score: 95% (Deep, Warm, and Complex. Dark Belgian At Its Best.)

Beer Review: Arcadia IPA

2009-03-08T17:09:00.002-04:00

Arcadia Brewing Company India Pale Ale

Its rare for me to find anything from Arcadia around Jersey so I was pleased to be able to pick this up. Seems like IPAs are quickly becoming the most prevalent craft beer style produced in the country. Would be interesting to see production volumes for different styles. This IPA pours a hazy dark copper color with an average head. Some lacing around the top. Aroma is very minimal. Some hops and a little bit of malt but not too much.

Flavor is very odd for an IPA. The malt has an odd sour flavor which doesn't do a very good job of balancing this hoppy brew. The hops are there in force but it really isn't very aromatic or flavorful. More bitter than anything else. Sour and bitter really don't work well together. Tasting this doesn't make me want another.

I don't know if much of the freshness was lost in the journey from Michigan but this is really underwhelming. Definitely one of my least favorite IPAs. I would like to try it on tap somewhere to see if it's just this batch. I will try more of their releases if I can find them but this is really not impressive. I would avoid this.

Final Score: 65% (Poor Malt Flavor. Only Bittering Hops. Not Much To Love.)

Beer Review: Michelob Irish Red

2009-03-05T17:59:00.003-05:00

Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company Michelob Irish Red Ale

Time for a seasonal Michelob release. Have to give the "King of Beers" a fair shot too. Price is right too. Hard to beat just over six dollars for a six pack of good beer. Lets just hope this actually turns out to be good beer. The Irish Red pours a medium copper color with an average tan head. No lacing present. The aroma is very malty. So far so good.

The flavor is surprisingly balanced and drinkable. Very nice sweet malt flavor up front followed by a very nice hop balance. The lightly toasted malt really adds a lot to the body. The hops aren't extremely assertive but they really shouldn't be for an Irish red. They are ample for balancing the malty ale. There is still that characteristic Anheuser-Busch yeast flavor that seems to come up in most of their products but the malt power dominates.

This is a very solid example of the style. This won't blow you away with a deep malt complexity but it will provide you with a great session beer. The price really makes this a great buy. I would still point you too the slightly (under a dollar) more expense Saranac Irish Red over this due to the better crystal malt quality but this is a very close second. Good job AB!

Final Score: 84% (Drinkable and Simple with a Sweet Malty Flavor. Great Price!)

Beer Review: Franziskaner Weissbier

2009-02-25T19:41:00.002-05:00

Spatan-Franziskaner Brewery Franziskaner Hefe-Weissbier

Time for a true German original. Spell-check really loves this name. For this style of beer I don't mind the green bottle as much because wheat beers usually aren't heavy in the hop department. Lowering the hop levels limits the amount of skunking potential. This hefe pours a very cloudy pale straw color with a very solid head. Lighter in color than most blonde wheat beers. Not much in the way of lacing but the head does last for a long time. Aroma is pure clove.

The flavor is classic hefeweizen. A bit heavy on the clove flavor but still very drinkable. I could have used some more banana or even more of the tart wheat malt flavor. Very refreshing brew. It's hard for me to describe but when I swallow this a really nice malt flavor comes to my mind. Makes me want to have another sip. Complexity is lacking but this is easily on par with some of the "benchmark" American craft beer producers.

Overall, this is a very average hefeweizen. Definitely drinkable and not bad but it lacks a solid unique quality. I would not be able to pick this out of a lineup. I would wager that this tastes much better in Germany. Anytime a food product has to travel across an ocean it must lose some of it's freshness. Worth a shot if you are new to the style or love cloves. Otherwise, I would try to find a locally produced hefeweizen.

Final Score: 74% (Very Average. Drinkable but Not Complex.)

Beer Review: Sixpoint Righteous Ale

2009-02-23T19:06:00.002-05:00

Sixpoint Craft Ales Righteous Rye Ale

My first Sixpoint review! About damn time. This local Brooklyn based brewery has been consistently impressive with their wide variety of ales. It is rare to find a quality rye ale (that is not from the Midwest) so I jumped at the chance for a growler of this. I believe very few (only 2) of their 19 beers are actually bottled. That means I may have to use growlers more often. Nothing wrong with that. Fresh beer is the best. The aroma coming off of the glass is staggering. Very rarely do I get a rich malt aroma followed with creamy yeast and floral hops all at once. Inviting is an understatement. The appearance is a lace lovers dream. All over the glass and on top the head just doesn't quit. Superb hopping. Dark amber color holds true for the style.

The flavor is much hoppier than I expected. At just under 54 IBUs and 7.2% ABV this beer is hoppier and stronger than almost any rye ale I have had to this point. This is truly righteous. The rye malt flavor is delicious. It really has a fresh cut sweet rye bread flavor that quickly rolls into a powerful hop attack. Very smooth transition. This has a higher IBU level than even some leading IPAs! I like the lack of conformity to style guidelines but make sure that you are in the mood for hops. You will get lots of them.

This is one hell of a beer. This is not in any way similar to most rye beers on the market. I have never had one like this. I would classify this as a RIPA. The hops are here in full force and they taste as fresh as possible. I only wish the rye malt was a little stronger. It is there and flavorful but the hops really dominate this brew. If you see this on tap you would do well to try a pint.

Final Score: 88% (Fresh Rye Flavor. Delicious Hopping. A Little Off Balance.)

Beer Review: Brooklyn Monster Ale

2009-02-18T20:29:00.003-05:00

Brooklyn Brewery Monster Barleywine Ale

Finally found a six pack of this rarity (at least where I shop). This an intriguing beer to me because while it is truly a big beer (10.1% ABV) it is not as big as Brooklyn's Black Chocolate Stout (10.6%). I figured that with a name like "Monster" that it was going to be the biggest and baddest of the Brooklyn lineup. Is this Godzilla? Or is this the lowly insect Mothra? Let's discover. The monster pours a translucent dark brown color with a very robust tan head. Lots of lacing and head retention. Aroma is of sweet malt, alcohol, and maple syrup. So far so good.

The monster bites with loads of malt. Where the Black Chocolate Stout delivered roasted coffee and chocolate goodness, the monster delivers loads of amber malt. The hops certainly take a backseat to this malt monster, few recipes can fight this. The flavors constantly evolve as the solvent heavy brew evaporates off your tongue. Cake, rum, biscuits, and even a little bit of maple syrup like flavors await you. Although balance seems out of reach, maybe that wasn't the intent. Brooklyn created a malt monster that can't be stopped even with the copious amount of hops that I am sure were thrown into the mix. Why get balance when you can fuck shit up?

There is no balance. No attempt at peaceful reconciliation. This is war on hops and the monster sure seems to be winning. If you want a beer that will teach you to fear malt this is the one. Anyone who doubts the possible complexity of beer needs only to try a barleywine like this. If you see this in the store I highly recommend picking it up. It is more pricey but in this case you really get what you pay for. To answer my original question, the monster is Godzilla.

Final Score: 90% (The Monster has Malt Bite to Spare.)

Beer Review: Saranac IPA

2009-02-17T19:24:00.002-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac India Pale Ale

Another of the core Saranac beers that I picked up in the new "What Ales You?" 12 pack. I am a huge IPA fan and I seem to be drinking quite a few of them lately. The most surprising thing about this brew is that it is a light golden color. Much lighter than even a standard American pale ale. Still, it may be light in color but the hop aromas coming out of the glass are very strong. Grassy with a little bit of citrus. There is a small amount of lacing around the glass.

The flavor is very bitter. The light pilsener style malt really takes a backseat to the aggressive hoping. The hop flavor is mostly grassy with enough fresh citrus flavors to keep things interesting. The pilsener malt does provide a tiny bit of malt flavor but is really not in a position to create a balanced beer. A bit of additional amber malt could have gone a long way.

If you love a balanced IPA this is not the beer for you. If you want a very bitter, hoppy beer with minimal malt character this is the ideal beer for you. I would really like some more malt flavor with this. As it is now, the drinkability is surprisingly low. Don't get me wrong, I like IPAs that have a ton of hops. The problem is that the lack of any real malt character renders this brew to be very one-dimensional.

Final Score: 72% (Very Hoppy and Bitter. Too Simplistic.)

Beer Review: Saranac Brown Ale

2009-02-16T19:31:00.002-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Brown Ale

Good old Saranac Brown. One of the core Saranac beers and one that I should have reviewed long ago. The brown pours a very dark redish copper color with a very solid head. Lacing all around the glass. Nice to know they didn't skimp on the hops. The aroma is creamy Saranac yeast and some great hop backbone.

This is a great brown ale. The malt complexity is glorious. They definitely used just the right amount of chocolate malt. You get the what tastes like four different kinds of malt, all with different roasting levels and it really unfolds throughout your mouth. The chocolate is a great finish. The hops take no back seat either. They hit you in the beginning with a fresh hoppy citrus flavor and go smoothly into a sharp bitterness that really complements the rich malty flavor.

This is an amazingly balanced and drinkable brew. It really hides the slightly higher 6% ABV level. You get an amazing malt complexity and a very solid hop profile. At a low price this really can't be beat. Certainly one of the best browns out there. I highly recommend this.

Final Score: 94% (Extremely Complex, Very Drinkable, and Cheap. Awesome.)

Beer Review: Stone Cali-Belgique IPA

2009-02-13T20:55:00.002-05:00

Stone Brewing Company Cali-Belgique India Pale Ale

This was an interesting find with a very bizarre name. It makes sense when put in the context of a west coast style IPA brewed with a Belgian yeast strain. Very intriguing. Could it be the best of both worlds? Pours a fairly light copper color with a strong head. Loads of lacing all over the glass. Aromas of Belgian spiciness and fresh hops quickly rise to your brain. So far so good.

Flavor is solid but not as crazy or delicious as I expected. The hops are certainly there in a big way. No questioning that. The spiciness is also there. The only problem I have is that there isn't much else beyond that. I don't know what I expected but at a price of $8 for a 22 oz. bomber but this isn't enough bang for the buck.

This is a great beer. You get loads of hops and a ton of Belgian spiciness but it really isn't as complex or mind blowing as it needs to be to justify the price. I love the Stone brewery but I will stick to their other offerings. Give it a try if you feel like splurging but don't expect to be blown out of the water. If they made this for less I would be thrilled.

Final Score: 78% (Great Beer. Bad Price.)

Beer Review: Saranac IRA

2009-02-13T19:24:00.002-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Irish Red Ale

Finally, found a fresh six pack of the IRA. Funny that there is an Irish style beer that can be abbreviated as IRA. Where is Harrison Ford when you need him? Can't get enough Patriot Games. This brew pours a rich amber color with an average sized head. Aroma is Saranac. If you have smelled a Saranac brew before you will have a good idea what this smells like. They all seem to have a similar aroma.

The flavor is very nice. The drinkability is the first thing that strikes me as being great. This may be an ale but it drinks like a lager. The second great thing is the crystal malt. You really get the full amber flavor you are craving with this. Not overly complex but delicious. The hops are there but they only really provide bitterness and very little else. This is on par for the style.

This is a go to beer for a party. You could drink these all night and not feel full. The great malt quality is also a big plus. If you are in the mood for a drinkable amber ale you would not go wrong with this. The IRA isn't the most complex beer out there but it is tasty and drinkable. This is a great success for Saranac and I am glad they released it.

Final Score: 86% (Drinkable, Tasty, and Simple. Give it a try!)

Beer Review: Climax IPA

2009-02-11T19:16:00.002-05:00

Climax Brewing Company India Pale Ale

This beer makes it the last Climax brew I can review until Dave and Kurt come out with a new brew. Sad in one way but I also feel pleased that I have reviewed all of there yearly offerings. This IPA pours a golden amber color with a great robust head. The aroma is beautiful. Some of the freshest malt and hop aromas around. I love fresh beer. When properly stored by distributors and stores Climax always delivers.

This flavor is wonderful. This is an IPA in true traditional European style. Very hoppy but not overpowering. If a brew can bring on the hops while still delivering a balanced beer I am on cloud 9. This is a beer I could drink all night. I just can't get enough.

Balance and freshness are the two most important characteristics in beer to me. This beer has both. If you are lucky enough to be able to purchase this at your local liquor store you should not hesitate. I would like to meet the person who could be disappointed with this brew. Fantastic.

Final Score: 96% (One of the Elite All-Time Great IPAs. Hop Fans Must Try!)

Beer Review: Brooklyn Winter Ale

2009-02-10T21:16:00.003-05:00

The Brooklyn Brewery Winter Ale

This is one that seems to be rare around the Jersey City area. Plenty of the Black Chocolate Stout but this is the first and only six pack I found of the Winter Ale. Pours a dark amber color with a strong head. No lacing that I can pick out. Aroma is extremely creamy. That's the best way I can describe it. Malty and creamy. Almost like beer-milk? Not as bad or outlandish as that probably sounds.

Flavor is great and malty. This is different from most winter seasonals in that there is a ton of lightly roasted malt flavor and they didn't fool around with spices. It's nice just to have a rich beer without cinnamon, wheat, or allspice. This is similar to a bock lager but with more of a punch. I like a spiced beer now and then but sometimes you just want a beer. I do find myself missing the hops though. I don't need this to be an IPA but I would like a bit more balance and fresh hop character. The bitterness is there but not much else.

This is also surprisingly drinkable for a winter ale. I have gotten half-way through this one and I wish I had another one lined up. If I ever get my dream of a kegerator this would be a serious consideration for a winter tap beer. If you are feeling the cold this will probably hit the spot. Just don't get this if you want hops. You will find the bare minimum here. That said, the malt flavor is second to very few.

Final Score: 86% (Drinkable, Better Malt Than Most But Lacks Hop Balance)

Beer Review: Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA

2009-02-04T18:34:00.002-05:00

Dogfish Head Craft Brewery 90 Minute Imperial India Pale Ale

I can't believe I haven't reviewed this earlier. I think I assumed I did without realizing it. Sam Calagione is a master brewer and you are almost always guaranteed to get your money's worth (even with the somewhat higher prices). This hoppy brew pours a deep copper color with a very robust white head. Aroma is very citrusy and piney. Some very sweet malt aromas come through as well. Lots of lacing all over the glass. Very inviting.

The flavor is nothing short of wonderful. The full and rich hoppy flavor is heavily balanced by a very large amount of malt. At 9% ABV this is one rich beer. I had a huge craving for hops today and this is sure to quench it. The hop flavor is very strong and would be overpowering if not for the gigantic malt quantity used to counter it. Despite it's intimidating name and gravity this is a very balanced beer.

This is one of the best Imperial IPAs available. If you are in the mood for a big, bold, hoppy beer this will rock your world. The only complaint I have about this is that it comes in four packs for the same price as a standard six pack. I know that the quality is higher than usual but I would still prefer buying this in six packs. Four just never feels right. The quality is worth it though. You won't be disappointed.

Final Score: 93% (Wonderfully Hoppy and Rich. Craving Satisfied.)

Beer Review: Ramstein Blonde Wheat

2009-01-29T20:05:00.003-05:00

High Point Wheat Beer Company Blonde Wheat Ale

Always love a good blonde hefeweizen. Especially a locally produced Jersey hefe. The bottle conditioning (carbonating in the bottle) is also a nice touch. Few breweries still do this. It generally doesn't make a huge difference but it is the kind of extra step that can put a brew over the top. The blonde pours a very cloudy light golden (blonde) color with an average head. Lots of clove going on in this aroma. I am not a hardcore clove fan but it is something that varies between breweries.

Flavor is pretty good. The freshness and rich clove flavor is really nice. I would certainly enjoy drinking a few of these on the beach. If I ever went to the beach. The sun always has to stick its over-heated omnipresent head into my business. The clove flavor definitely has a bit more freshness than you might get from your average blonde wheat. I really miss the banana flavors also produced by good German hefe yeast. The clove flavor is just too dominant.

This is an above average wheat beer that will satisfy most hefeweizen cravings. If they fermented at a slightly colder temp the flavor would be much more refreshing. Less clove and more banana. I feel like a broken record. If you live in Jersey and it's not winter (or if you are in the mood) you won't go wrong with this. I still prefer the Climax Hefeweizen over this. This is a good second though, even more so if you don't want to deal with the growler size.

Final Score: 83% (Fresh and Flavorful but Could be Better!)

Beer Review: Sam Adams Scotch Ale

2009-01-29T19:34:00.003-05:00

Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams Scotch Ale

Since Scotch happens to be my favorite liquor and beer rocks my world this is a no brainer. Though I do lose the rewarding heavy buzz of sipping a neat glass. The beer pours a very pretty dark red color with crazy lacing around the glass. I can already taste the smoke in the aroma. Very exciting job this beer reviewing is. If only I can figure out a way to make real money (or get free beer sent to me). I will certainly work for beer. I think I already might.

This flavor is unmistakable scotch. I am always skeptical about this style because I never think it can really capture that smokey peat goodness but it usually comes through. This malt is expertly done. This is my flavorite scotch ale so far. You get the full smokey flavor combined with the sweet richness of biscuity malt. The hops aren't really noticable but if they were I think this brew would be very painful on the palette. Like gin. I really hate gin.

If you like scotch and beer you will love this. Sam's scotch ale is a fantastic winter beer. The malty flavor is complex and provides all the right things. You won't miss the hops. I wish they would offer this in six packs. I would certainly pick up a few. If they ever start a gin ale I am boycotting.

Final Score: 89% (Warming, Malty, and Complex. What More Do You Want?)

Beer Review: Sam Adams Boston Ale

2009-01-28T20:28:00.008-05:00

Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams Boston Ale

Time for another Boston brew review. This time its the ale cousin of the classic Boston lager. Eventually I will get all 21 Sam Adams beers reviewed. The ale pours a dark copper color with a very robust head. Lacing forms a solid cylinder around the glass. Very cool appearance. Aroma is very hoppy. Its rare when I can actually smell some serious hopping and it bodes well.

Flavor is really nice. This is very much a pale ale, I would say in the American style. The malt is fairly noticeable with some biscuity lightly toasted flavors. The hop bitterness is very strong in this one. It hits you up front and then comes around again in the aftertaste. A little bit of grapefruity hop flavor present too.

This is a nice balanced American pale ale. Really goes down very easy. The only characteristic I would change about this beer is to include a little less bitterness and more hoppy flavor. The small amount of citrusy notes are really nice and I would like to see this flavor strengthened. Still, this is very smooth and would make a great session ale. This is very similar to the Boston lager. This brew just happens to be slightly more hoppy than its lager relative. If you need a very noticeable (but balanced) hop presence in your beer you would do well to choose this.

Final Score: 82% (A Hoppy American Pale Ale. Fairly Average but Very Drinkable)

Beer Review: Brooklyn Pennant Ale '55

2009-01-27T19:02:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn Brewery Brooklyn Pennant Ale '55

Time for another semi-local brew. I love this brewery and I will continue to support them. Especially after reading their book "Beer School". Very good read for all beer enthusiasts. Just make sure you have some Brooklyn brew handy because you will be craving it. The Pennant ale pours a slightly dark golden color with a decent head that sticks around for a few minutes. Not much going on in the lacing department. Aroma is nice with a very malty character.

The flavor is very surprising. The malt really wows me. It has a unique quality that I can't put my finger on. Its a very lightly toasted flavor. A little sweet and really add some depth. The hopping is also well done, providing a great balance to the rich malt goodness. I could use some more hops but that might through off the balance. It's tough to say.

This is very drinkable. Maybe even more drinkable than the classic Brooklyn lager. I wasn't anywhere near born by 1955 so it seems weird to be drinking a beer that celebrates the Brooklyn Dodgers victory then. In the end it doesn't really matter. This is a great beer that I will be sure to get again in the future. This quality of malt is very hard to come by. You owe it to yourself to try this at least once.

Final Score: 88% (High Quality and Very Drinkable Ale. Go Dodgers!)

Beer Review: Samuel Adams White Ale

2009-01-26T20:54:00.002-05:00

Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams White Ale

Seems ironic that I am reviewing the white ale a day after the black lager. This is a traditional unfiltered Belgian Wit style beer brewed with coriander and other spices for a unique taste. These are very hit or miss with me. I find them to be refreshing and occasionally I am in the mood for them but usually I will go for something else. Pours a cloudy pale golden color with a strong head that leaves some lacing around the glass. Aroma is definitely spiced, I get mainly coriander with some orange going on. Very inviting. Especially after the gym.

Flavor is exactly what I expected. Loads of spice flavor with a light malt flavor. Even tastes a little like corn though I am sure they only use barley in this one. I can't taste any hops as expected. One time I would like to brew a beer like this with a strong hop presence. Probably wouldn't be good but that's the game of experimentation. On a hot spring or summer day this will hit the spot but there is almost no reason for them to release this in January.

This is a very standard Wit beer. This will probably not wow you if you have had this style of beer a couple of times before. It's still a good representation but it doesn't stand out in any way. I view this beer as a benchmark for all other Wit beers. This hits all the style points but just doesn't leave you with a lasting impression. I won't seek this out again.

Final Score: 74% (Very Mediocre. Refreshing but Boring.)

Beer Review: Samuel Adams Black Lager

2009-01-25T19:09:00.002-05:00

Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams Black Lager

Had to go with a taste of Bavaria tonight. This is one of the most drinkable styles of beer I have yet to encounter. Don't be intimidated by the color. I could even drink a schwarzbier on a warm summer day. Pours a very dark amber color with a slightly off-white head. Aroma is of malty sweetness with a little bit of cream.

Flavor is wonderful. This beer is extremely rich in dark roasted caramel flavor with a lot of nuttiness coming through. This would definitely pair well with some sort of nutty chocolate cake. The hopping is also very nice. The bitterness is there but very muted. Just enough to balance out the beer while still allowing the roasted sweetness through.

This is one of the very best offerings from Boston beer. Other beers of the schwarzbier style can be thin on flavor and one-dimensional but this really evolves as it travels around your palette. This is that rare combination of complexity and drinkability that beer lovers strive for. I can't come up with any flaws. You will like this.

Final Score: 90% (Deep Roasted and Very Drinkable. Great Brew!)

Beer Review: Climax Doppel Bock

2009-01-10T19:19:00.002-05:00

Climax Brewing Company Hoffmann Doppel Bock Lager

The last of the Climax seasonals. Hoffmann and co. really make a great lager. I was extremely excited about this release. How can you go wrong with a microbrewed malty seasonal release? Pours a light brown coppery color with a moderate head. Aroma is pure caramelized goodness. Not much in the way of hops but the malty goodness is really inviting.

The caramel flavor really jumps out. This is about as malty and rich tasting as a bock beer can get. There are some definite hop flavors going on, it just isn't the dominate flavor in the beer. The hops are really only used for bitterness. This is one of the best tasting malts around. There is even a little bit of roasted flavor that shows up in the aftertaste.

This will not disappoint anyone who is a fan of bock beers. A malt lover's dream. One of the most impressive things about this is that it still manages to be balanced. Even with the generous quantity of dark malt used. If you are looking for a hoppy beer you should look elsewhere. If you are in the cold and need something hearty, this will hit the spot. A great beer done in the traditional style.

Final Score: 91% (Very Complex and Drinkable. Masterfully Done.)

Beer Review: Saranac Bohemian Pilsener

2009-01-09T17:59:00.002-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Bohemian Pilsener Lager

Time for another review. This is the last beer I have to review in the new 12 beers of winter from Saranac. I love that F.X. Matt puts out multiple new beers every year. It really shakes things up and enhances the limited feel of seasonal releases. This is a really tricky style and I always like to see how different breweries handle it. This is the beer that scared the Germans so much that they developed the Munich Helles style to fight back. A beer this light (it pours as light as a Budweiser) has no room for imperfections and off flavors. No dark roasted flavors to cover anything up. The aroma is very rich in the classic pilsener malt. It has that distinct pilsener malt smell that only the beers done authentically with the correct yeast strain and temperature can acquire.

Flavor is dead on for the style. The spicy saaz hops and the surprisingly malty pilsener malt really balance each other out. This is perhaps the most drinkable beer in the Saranac line. I really enjoy these hops. You will really be hard pressed to find a better hop varietal to counter the malty pilsener flavor. It has a quick grassy bite that rapidly fades and leaves you with a smooth aftertaste. Another word that comes to mind when drinking this beer is "clean". This is smooth, light, and clear. Yet it has flavor. Very impressive.

If I had to recommend one of the new Saranac beer styles for availability in six packs this would be my choice. This is an insanely drinkable lager and if there was ever a beer to introduce people who only drink very cheap light lagers to the world of bigger beer this would be my recommendation. The one question I am left with is why they put this in the winter mix pack. Pilseners are traditionally warm weather beer. I enjoy different styles year round but I would just like to hear the official response. Give this a shot!

Final Score: 89% (Very Authentic and Drinkable.)

Beer Review: River Horse ESB

2009-01-03T18:00:00.002-05:00

River Horse Brewing Company Extra Special Bitter Ale

I really enjoy a good ESB. I am trying to continue to buy local beers as much as possible and buying a Jersey beer where the brew master lives in the same city as me seems about as good as I can get. This pours a full golden brown color with a great head that lingers for a long time. The aroma is rich in hops and a little bit of acetaldehyde (a crisp green apple flavor/aroma).

Flavor is great. For me there are two keys to a good ESB. The first requirement is great hopping. They need enough hops to balance the pale malt but not too much that it is overwhelming. Everything needs to be in balance. The second requirement is the acetaldehyde.
This may be considered a "defect" in many beers but I welcome it's presence in small quantities. It adds a crisp refreshing bite that adds to the complexity. Fortunately, this beer meets these requirements perfectly. There is even a bit of an alcohol bite, but nothing too much above a general pale ale.

This is a great brewing company and I will continue to support them and other Jersey brewers as much as possible. This will definitely hit the spot if you are in the mood for an English style treat. I still have yet to go to England but I can't imagine that the authentic bitters are any better than this. I am impressed. This is truly worthy of the "Extra Special" name.

Final Score: 92% (A Wonderful ESB. This Will Hit The Spot.)

Beer Reveiew: Hitachino Nest Espresso Stout

2008-12-30T19:28:00.003-05:00

Kiuchi Brewery Hitachino Nest Espresso Stout

Wow. This was a unique gift. I have never seen this before. I am a huge fan of espresso. I believe it to be the most flavorful and quality form of coffee. That combined with a stout should be a match made only by the beer gods. Pours a deep dark brown color that looks amazing coming out of the bottle. The head is solid and looks very inviting with it's brown tint. Aroma is all espresso. If I was closer to an alcoholic than I am this would be my breakfast.

Flavor is delicious. I had no idea a beer this rich could come from Japan. I enjoy a good Sapporo now and then but this is far beyond the yellow lagers. The malt is deeply roasted and the espresso flavor works very well with it. Providing a smoothness that I am surprised to experience. I don't know how this doesn't overwhelm my taste buds with a sharp bitterness but it is light and creamy in the mouth.

This is a great ale. At 7.5% ABV this doesn't pull any punches either. I will certainly pick up more of this if I find it. Anyone who like black coffee (or espresso) will love this. The combination of dark roasted barley malt, espresso, alcohol, and smoothness will keep me coming back. You can have your cake and eat it too.

Final Score: 94% (Rich, Smooth, and Unique. My Favorite Japanese Beer.)

Beer Review: Sierra Nevada Celebration

2008-12-30T18:49:00.003-05:00

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Celebration Ale

Finally got around to reviewing the celebration. I have seen it everywhere but never bought it. It definitely was not what I was expecting. Fortunately that is a good thing. I expected this to be standard holiday spiced ale with cinnamon and allspice and instead I found a wonderfully hoppy IPA style beer. I am not 100 percent certain that this is an IPA but it has more malt and more hops than a pale ale so in my book that is an IPA. The celebration pours a rich amber color with an astounding head that can only be produced by masterful hopping. Aroma is rich with hoppy goodness. Some sharp cascade hops.

Flavor is Sierra Nevada at their best. This brewery makes arguably the world's best pale ale and that skill is not lost on this IPA. There is no shortage of hops here. The bitterness is through the roof. While, the malt is bulked up a bit (6.8% ABV) I still wish there was a bit more.
I enjoy one-sided beers but this should lean a little more toward hop aroma and flavor rather than the large amount of bitterness. It's just very abrasive on the tongue.

Overall, this is a great seasonal release. I would recommend this to anyone who doesn't think there is such a thing as enough hops. Malt lovers should not seek this out. Where Sierra's pale ale is classic for it's rich balanced hoppiness this falls a little short for lacking the kind of malt needed to counteract the tongue blistering bite of the hop flower. A great beer, but not without it's flaws.

Final Score: 85% (Very Bitter and Hoppy, Needs More Malt.)

Beer Review: Old Speckled Hen

2008-12-28T17:31:00.002-05:00

Morland Brewing Company Old Speckled Hen English Fine Ale

I have no idea what to expect from this. An English pale ale in a clear bottle. I really hate clear bottles but I will not judge until I try it. Pours a light amber color with lots of lacing and a robust head. Very creamy aroma if that makes any sense.

Flavor is as I expected a bit skunky. Clear bottles almost always mean skunky. Despite the skunky flavor this still has some good stuff going on. The amber malt provides a smokey bread-like flavor that is balanced by the strong hop presence. Very bitter hoppy aftertaste. Not much in the way of hop aroma but the bitterness is very pronounced. The bitterness combined with the skunkyness is very powerful. This combination really ruins any chance at true balance.

This would be an excellent ale if it was in an amber bottle. Since Morland has been brewing since 1711 they really should know better. If this was available in cans and the price was right I would certainly pick this up on occasion. This would be excellent if you like Heineken, Becks, or Stella but it really won't cut it if you don't want a less abrasive clean flavored ale. I just can't excuse a flaw like this.

Final Score: 69% (Skunky but Otherwise Solid Malt Character. Stop the Clear.)

Beer Review: Saranac ESB

2008-12-28T16:02:00.002-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Extra Special Bitter Ale

Another Saranac limited winter release. This is one of my favorite styles as it tend to be balanced and drinkable. You get a little bit of everything. Pours a dark amber color with a creamy head that sticks around for a couple minutes. Aroma is very fleeting with a little bit of lightly roasted malt coming through.

Flavor is nearly identical to the pale ale that Saranac produces. This leans a bit more on the malty side though. Still very noticeable hops however. This is very refreshing and drinkable. This is one that I could enjoy year round. I would really like to drink this next to the pale ale and compare the two styles. Most of the ESBs that I have had have a sort of apple crispness to them that this doesn't have. I really miss that.

This is a solid ale and a decent addition to the winter releases but it really doesn't do enough to distinguish itself from the flagship pale ale. This is very mediocre for the style. This is essentially a lightly roasted balanced hoppy ale. Nothing more and nothing less. This will not wow you but it can hit the spot. I am forced to give this a very average score.

Final Score: 74% (Average and Forgettable. I Expected More.)

Beer Review: Trader Joe's Vintage Ale

2008-12-25T20:01:00.002-05:00

Unibroue Brewing Company Trader Joe's 2008 Vintage Dark Ale on Lees

This is a great Christmas present. Doesn't get much better than a dark Belgian Dubble that is bottle conditioned. This is my first taste of a Trader Joe's offering and I am excited. I can't imagine what my 12 year old self would have said if he (I?) was told that a great Christmas present would involve beer. Little would he know that beer would dig its way into my brain and motivate many of the actions that followed. This even comes with a loud pop when you uncork it. What is better for the holidays than that? This ale pours a smooth somewhat dark brown color with a magnificent head. Lacing all around. Aroma is loaded with that distinct Belgian spiciness that only comes from that magical yeast.

Flavor is exactly as I wanted it to be. The yeast offers up most of the flavor. I get lots of banana and spiciness. The rich brown malt provides a sweet balance to the strong yeast presence. While it doesn't have a strong taste, the alcohol is definitely in full force. My buzz will attest to that. If the hops are in there they got punched out. The spice and malt are in prime condition and won't halt for the citrusy green goodness that is the hop.

Rest assured that this beer will not disappoint if you like any Belgian ales. They say it ages well but I will never find out something like that. A bottle this good won't last more than a week. This is a great offering by Trader Joe's (via Unibroue) and I will definitely look forward to more from them. If you see this pick it up. At least cellar it for a special occasion. If I have steered you wrong you know where to throw the coal. Merry Christmas to all!

Final Score: 95% (Deep, Dark, and Spicy. Delicious Dubble Ale.)

Beer Review: William Penn Lager

2008-12-24T20:29:00.003-05:00

Commonwealth Brewing Company William Penn Colonial Style Lager

I picked this up on whim. I had a craving for an easy drinking lager and took a chance with this. It also helped that I have never seen this beer anywhere so I jumped at the opportunity. Pours a medium copper color, similar to a marzen beer. They describe it as a colonial style lager but from all the accounts I have read colonial beers were terrible. Should I expect a terrible lager?

Flavor is very rich in amber malt. Hops are noticeable but really dominated by the strong malt flavor. A bit of sour tang going on also. This is kind of like a Yuengling but with more malt. Fairly easy drinking but I don't think I would want more than two at a time. This is fairly clean but it feels like it is missing something. I suppose this would fall into the Vienna style lager category but I would much rather have a Sam Adams or a Brooklyn lager over this. It just doesn't have the hops to back up the increased malt flavor.

This is an OK beer but it really could use some improvement. I wish the hops were fresher and used in a larger quantity. They should either lighten up the malt or increase the hops. Lagers need balance and this one only has one leg to stand on.

Final Score: 68% (Not the Commonwealth's Finest)

Beer Review: Victory Prima Pils

2008-12-15T22:04:00.004-05:00

Victory Brewing Company Prima Pilsner Lager

Continuing in my drinking summer beers in between rich winter beers condition (nothing wrong with variety). I decided to pick up a six pack of the Victory pilsner. I would also like to congratulate Victory on being named the number 3 All-Time Top Brewery in the on Planet Earth by Beer Advocate magazine. Quite an honor. Beer Advocate is also an excellent magazine for those who want to learn more about beer. Though I would still say the best way to know beer is to brew it, second best is to (of course) drink it. Doing both often makes a good lifestyle. The bottle has a best by date of February 09. The prima pilsner pours a light golden color with a decent head that sticks around for a while. Not much in the way of lacing. Very sharp hop aroma probably because of the whole flower hops used. I gotta start growing hops. Hard to beat a fresh, aromatic hop.

Taste is classic pilsner. Very sharp hop bite. Tastes like Saaz hops to me. The malt is very soft spoken but it shouldn't be too rich in this style. Pennsylvania water seems damn good for beer. Though Jersey is no slouch, we produce some great beers as well. This is such a spicy hoppy beer. Really dances around the tongue. The aftertaste is a bit bitter but I don't mind. It would be strange if a beer like this didn't have a bit of a bitter aftertaste.

The great flavor combined with the relatively low price makes this beer one of the best pilsners you can buy. Anyone who wants an easy drinking, hoppy beer will be pleased with this. The most similar one to this is the Stout's Pils. That had less of a hop bite with a larger malt backbone. Less true to the style. I really don't like giving out too many 90%+ scores but I can't rate this any lower than it deserves. I feel confident saying this is as good as pilsners get.

Final Score: 94% (Fantastic Hoppy Pilsner. Good Year Round.)

Beer Review: Brooklyner Weisse

2008-12-09T21:24:00.003-05:00

Brooklyn Brewing Company Brooklyner Weisse Ale

Finally got around to trying this one. Even though this is actually brewed in upstate New York it still feels like I am supporting local brewers. This definitely isn't the season for a wheat beer but I just had a craving for some unfiltered goodness. Damn the rules. Maybe it's my Bavarian ancestors. I have no idea why they left if this was a daily occurrence. I have yet to brew a wheat beer that I really enjoy. I just don't know what I am doing wrong. Maybe if I drink enough of these I will figure it out. That usually works... Anyway, aroma is actually very sour smelling, kinda like a wheat malt brewed with wild yeast. Though I doubt they would use that if they wanted the kind of quality control you need to be a successful commercial brewer. The weiss beer is cloudy as expected and the head is actually pretty good for a lightly hopped beer. Moving on to the taste.

Flavor is classic hefeweizen. Loads of banana and clove yeast flavor. Mostly clove. This fits perfectly for the style. Though there really isn't anything unique going on here flavor-wise. This is exactly what you would expect going into a hefeweizen. No more and not a bit less. It hit the spot but I wouldn't be fair if I gave it too high of a score. It would be just above the bell curve if this were a test. I don't really taste any hops but I don't want to when I drink these.

In the end, this is a beer that will give you what you want. As long as you don't expect to be blown away. If you find a wheat beer that is cheaper I would try it. Most likely it's just as good as this. Unless you are talking about Dundee's failed wheat beer. Makes sense that this is brewed in Utica. This is pretty much identical to the Saranac Hefeweizen. Must be in the water. I'd love to do a side by side comparison sometime.

Final Score: 77% (A Solid Hefe, But Nothing Special)

Beer Review: Saranac India Brown Ale

2008-12-07T21:59:00.002-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac India Brown Ale

Another of the new beers in the 12 beers of winter mix pack. This style was much needed in the winter pack. Last year's release had few hoppy beers. Hopefully this will fill the void. This one pours an amber color with a short lived head that leaves a very small amount of lacing. Aroma is interesting, it reminds me of the pumpkin ale they released a few months back. Just with less spiciness.

Flavor is not what I expected. The malt is a bit disappointing. It has a very weak presence and is dominated by the hops. Normally I would like this but the hops are really just bitter. There isn't much in the way of flavor or aroma from them. I would have expected this to be the most robust and flavorful of all the new releases but it really just leaves you wanting something else. I don't think the malt blends at all with this kind of hopping.

I definitely wouldn't buy a six pack of this were it stand alone. This isn't a horrible beer by any means, its just disappointing and lackluster. Their India pale ale is much better. They should have called this India amber ale. There just isn't much that's brown about this.

Final Score: 69% (Disappointing. Malt and Hops are Weak.)

Beer Review: Clipper CIty Peg Leg

2008-12-07T03:11:00.002-05:00

Clipper City Brewing Company Peg Leg Imperial Stout

Another brew in the Heavy Seas line from Clipper City. I love a good imperial stout. They work excellently with the December chill. This one pours a dark brown as expected with a solid head. Doesn't get too high but really sticks around as a low level. Aroma is very much chocolate and alcohol. You will be hard pressed to find a more inviting aroma.

Flavor is extremely chocolaty. This is the most drinkable imperial stout that I have yet to encounter. This still has the alcoholic bite and rich roasted malt goodness of an imperial stout yet is somehow easy to drink. Sipping is recommended but not required. The hops are also here in more force than normal for a stout. I really like this. Its an attempt at balance for a beer that thrives on being extremely one sided and decadent. The crazy part is they actually succeed.

I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a big beer and wants to experience a balanced brew. This is a great effort from Clipper City and one that I will seek out in the future. I've had imperial stouts with more alcohol but this just seems right. Enough to pack a punch but still goes down easy. I never thought balance could be brought to this style. Turns out I was wrong.

Final Score: 94% (A Balanced,Way Above Average Imperial Stout)

I would definitely consider buying a six pack of these. They are big beers that go down easy. An extremely hard task to pull off.

Beer Review: Climax Cream Ale

2008-12-07T01:37:00.002-05:00

Climax Brewing Company Cream Ale

Time for another Jersey review. This time the year round cream ale by the extremely talented Dave Hoffmann of Climax Brewing. This is an interesting beer style with characteristics that will range heavily from brewery to brewery. Dave described this to me as basically a pale ale that was called a cream ale to stand out next to the popular IPA. Makes sense to me. It would be a rare day that I go for a pale ale over an IPA. I am a sucker for the hops. This pours a slightly cloudy straw golden color with some lacing and a decent head. Aroma is crisp ale and hop with a little bit of alcohol that seems to be unique to Climax beers.

Flavor is surprisingly hoppy. Very grassy. Less floral and citrusy than a standard pale ale. This is not anything related to Genessee Cream Ale. I just learned that a cream ale is an ale that is brewed somewhat similarly to a lager and usually incorporates lager yeast at some point. Kind of like the opposite of a steam beer. This is a very easy drinking ale. This is very balanced and would definitely be on my list of repeat beers. If you are looking for something that is malty you will probably want to look elsewhere but hop fans will be happy with this brew.

This is a nice, easy going ale that should definitely be tried at least once. Climax produces the some of the best beer that I have encountered. Support them. I would be very surprised if anyone was disappointed with this beer.

Final Score: 89% (Heads and Shoulders Above Most Cream Ales)

Beer Review: Brooklyn Black Chocolate

2008-12-05T19:31:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn Brewing Company Black Chocolate Stout Ale

Finally sat down to review this gem. This is my favorite Brooklyn release so far and one I almost always go for when I see it. Also happens to be their biggest beer (even bigger than the Monster Ale). This is from the Winter 08-09 vintage. Pours as dark as they come with a small controlled head. Lacing is not stopped by the high 10% ABV. This is a true imperial stout. No bullshit going on here. This has the balls to compete with the big boys of winter. Aroma is of chocolate and alcohol. A winning combo if there ever was one.

Flavor is extremely rich for even an imperial stout. This is a sipping beer. Even if it comes in the standard six-pack. Beer pong with some black chocolate equals trouble. The alcohol is very noticeable. Has a cooling effect on the tongue as it evaporates. Very pleasant. The chocolate malt is extremely rich as well. Not as much coffee or caramel flavors. Just deep dark chocolate. There are some bittering hops here but you really won't notice or pay too much attention. Hop heads seek elsewhere.

Overall, this is a great imperial stout. One of the best. The price certainly can't be beat at under 10 dollars for a six pack. This is a winter classic and one I wish I got a case of. A beer like this could age well. If you see this pick it up and try it. This is a beer that will warm and satisfy your taste. Those of the faint palate need not apply.

Final Score: 95% (Big Beer. Big Taste. Affordable Price.)

Beer Reivew: Clipper City Loose Cannon

2008-11-25T13:19:00.002-05:00

Clipper City Brewing Company Loose Cannon Hop3 Ale

This is my first review for the Clipper City Brewing Company. They are still pretty hard to find here in northern New Jersey but I am glad to get to try what I can. This is part of the Heavy Seas line that they released to cater to the fans of big beer. This beer is touted as being "a hop shot across the bow!" with 3 lbs of hops per barrel. That is impressive to me, I usually don't add any more than a pound. Very good aroma, sweet and caramelly with some hop spiciness. The head is a bit lackluster. Goes away after a minute or two. I expected more retention from a beer this hoppy. They definitely bumped up the malt to compete with the hops which I like. A sign of a true big beer.

The flavor is surprisingly sweet. This to me tastes like they went light on the bittering hops and used the three pounds for flavor and aroma. The result is a sweet hoppy beer that doesn't overpower in any way. The 7.25% ABV will creep up on you though. The flavor really hides the potency very well. I do find myself missing some of the bitterness that seems to be left out.

This is a good IPA but it isn't one I would go to often. I do however think it is a good addition to the heavy seas lineup and serves to round out the malty collection. The sweet malty hop flavor is very nice but I would find myself seeking an IPA elsewhere.

Final Score: 73% (Unusual for an IPA. Still Average.)

Beer Review: Saranac Vanilla Stout

2008-11-24T14:43:00.005-05:00

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Vanilla Stout Ale

A new 12 beers of winter! I am happy to be able to try the latest Saranac offerings. The old ones will be missed but I always have room in my heart for new beers. Pours a dark mahogany color with a pretty good head. Sticks around for a while. Aroma is definitely of vanilla and roasted malt. No hops in the aroma. Lets see how it tastes.

This is a decent beer. The vanilla flavor is there and it's not as dominant as I was afraid it would be. It works well with the dark roasted malt flavor. I do wish it was a little fresher tasting. This just feels like it is missing something. This is an OK stout but this can't compete with the Caramel Porter that they released in the last 12 beers of winter. The stout just doesn't excel in any area. They went a bit overboard with the bittering hops. The bitterness completely overwhelms the vanilla flavor.

I just feel underwhelmed. This is fairly drinkable but this isn't something I would get a six pack of. Definitely different from a standard stout but this probably won't amaze you. I'd like to try this one on draft and see how it fares. If you want a lot of vanilla flavor or a warming stout seek elsewhere.

Final Score: 72% (Disappointing. Needs Improvement.)

Beer Review: Sierra Nevada Harvest

2008-11-24T13:48:00.002-05:00

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Harvest Wet Hop Ale

This is one that I am glad I found. Very hard to find a real wet hop ale so I quickly snatched a bottle of this. The bottle has a description of the amazing effort involved with harvesting these hops and quickly adding them into the kettle. The pour alone is amazing. Rich amber color with the most amazing head I have ever seen. Towers over the beer and really sticks around. Its still there 15 minutes later. Lacing all the way up the glass. Almost like a wall of foam. Aroma is eqaully great. Extremely rich pine and floral hop notes that really overwhelm.

Despite the great aroma and apperance the flavor is even better. This is like drinking hops. The hops are defintiely in the driver's seat but this still manages to be well balanced and drinkable. I will choose this over your standard IPA any day. This is a delight to the senses. This might be the beer to make an army of hop heads. The malt is still there though. Just the right amount of caramelly sweetness to balance this out. If I get the opportunity I will be picking up a case of this. A rare release this good needs to be stocked up on.

If you like hops this is a beer you must try. I wonder if it is even possible to get more hop flavor in here. The flavor is still ridiculously clean. I need to figure out how I can get my own wet hops. I may have to start a garden. This is just amazing. I don't want to overhype any beer but I feel that this won't disappoint. Sierra Nevada sets the bar really high with this release.

Final Score: 95% (Hop Perfection. Amazing.)

Beer Review: Lord Chesterfield Ale

2008-11-21T19:19:00.002-05:00

D.G. Yuengling & Son Lord Chesterfield Ale

I believe this is my first Yuengling review. Very surprising. I remember having this about a year ago and being very disappointed. I decided to pick up a single and give it a second try. Singles are good for second chances. This is the only ale brewed by Yuengling and named after Philp Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield. No idea why they decided to name this after him. Aroma is very skunky with a bit of corn malt. Not a good sign. I really want breweries to stop using these damn green bottles. I want to avoid all skunky flavors. I am willing to pay the extra 50 cents a six pack (if its even that much).

Flavor is surprisingly bland for an ale. Even though I remember being disappointed before I was still surprised by how unremarkable this is. This may be Yuengling's hoppiest beer but it that apparently doesn't say much. I definitely taste the bittering and flavor hops but it really leaves you wanting more. The malt flavor is very bland. You can really tell when a brewery uses corn to add to the body. I would describe this as a skunkier version of their traditional lager. There is nothing ale-like about this.

I really do enjoy most of the Yuengling offerings. They are some of the best value beers out there. I advise you to stick with the Yuengling porter or the traditional lager. They are worlds better than this. Steer clear of lord chesterfield. You won't end up with what you want, regardless of what you are looking for.

Final Score: 61% (Skunky, Disappointing, and Bland.)

Beer Review: Ramstein Classic Wheat

2008-11-21T18:56:00.003-05:00

High Point Wheat Beer Company Ramstein Classic Wheat Beer

Continuing in the efforts of supporting local breweries I picked up this bottle of wheat beer brewed in Butler, NJ. I can say that I've never had a beer like this before. I've had dark wheat beers but never one that tasted anything like this. Pours a very dark amber color similar to a porter or stout with a very brief head (could have been a poorly cleaned glass). Aroma is very clean, all I get is smooth wheat. Almost smells like a small bakery.

I went into this thinking I would end up with a wheat bock of sorts. Flavor is not at all what I expected. The roasted wheat malt really comes through strong. Very delicious. Has an apple-like acidic bite as well. If you baked wheat bread with apples and blackened it a bit you might get an idea of what this tastes like. This is incredibly easy to drink for such a dark beer. The esters produced by this ale fermentation really add some layers of complexity. As it warms the fruity clove flavors really come through. I don't get a strong hop flavor but I usually can't detect much in dark or wheat beers. They aren't missed.

It is nice to see a brewery focus on one continent in the large world of beer. I am looking forward to more of these in the future as well as trying their other offerings. I'd love to see their take on the traditional hefeweizen style. If you see this you should definitely pick it up. I still have yet to have a Bavarian beer on location but this has to be pretty damn close. This is a joy for your pallet as well as your brain. Great job High Point!

Final Score: 94% (Happy Tongue. Dark Wheat Beer.)

Beer Review: Brooklyn Oktoberfest

2008-11-19T20:12:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn Brewing Company Oktoberfest Lager

Yet another Brooklyn review. They are one of my favorite breweries and I always like to support the local guys. Even if all of their bottles come from Utica. I had a party about a month ago and got a 1/6 keg of this to serve along with the hoppy River Horse Hop Hazard. Went over very well, these malty Oktoberfest beers are definitely one of the best style for sessioning and partying. This has the classic appearance down perfectly. Dark amber color with a brief head. Aroma is really malty, almost like bread.

Taste is very rich yet drinkable. You get hit first with that malty richness that does a great job of hiding the slight alcohol bite that follows. Hops are there but really just for bittering and they stay in the background most of the time. How does this stand up to other Oktoberfest beers? I would say this is better than most of the Oktoberfest beers that I have had. Definitely beats Sam Adams, Saranac, and Becks. Though I think it's still not up to Climax quality. I will say this on draft is hard to beat though. The bottled version loses some of the fresh malt flavor.

If you are able to get this and haven't yet I recommend trying it. This is about as good as this style of beer gets unless you go to a smaller microbrewery that can really deliver that great fresh beer flavor. The hopping and the malt flavors are pretty much dead on. This is another great offering from the wonderful borough of Brooklyn.

Final Score: 93% (Will Hit The Spot. A Great "Go To" Oktoberfest.)

Beer Review: Brooklyn Brown Ale

2008-11-18T20:50:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn Brewing Company Brown Ale

Finally got a single of the Brooklyn Brown Ale. I've been wanting to try this for a while. I love a solid brown ale and Brooklyn has never disappointed. Pours a dark mahogany red with a decent sized head. Maybe an half an inch that recedes to a ring around the outside of the glass. Aroma is of pure chocolate spiced with hops. Very inviting.

The flavor is very chocolaty. Many browns skimp on the chocolate but this really delivers. Coffee flavors are there too but more muted in this than the typical brown. This reminds me of the Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout, just with less malt. The hopping is also great. The spicy floral hop flavor really balances the malt nicely.

This is one of the best Brown Ales I have ever had. This is such a wonderfully balanced beer. I can't think of a single thing to improve on this. Mr. Oliver didn't skimp on anything. This is easy drinking, chocolaty, hoppy, and satisfying. I really wish I had more than a single bottle now. I think this beer just earned a great score.

Final Score: 91% (As Good as a Brown Gets. Delicious.)

Beer Review: Blue Moon

2008-11-16T20:38:00.003-05:00

Blue Moon Brewing Company Belgian White Ale

This is the most common white ale in the United States. Blue Moon can thank it's availability to being owned by the powerful Coors Brewing Company. I have really enjoyed all of the Blue Moon offerings I have had so far and this one is no exception. Appearance is a light golden color with the characteristic cloudy yeast goodness of unfiltered beer. I wish more beers were unfiltered. It's good for you and just looks cool. Aroma is slightly sour with some definite citrus going on.

Flavor is dead on for the style. I don't think this needs a slice of orange. Really solid citrus and coriander flavors with the complexity of the wheat malt. You will definitely notice the spicing but it's not overwhelming. The hops are not really noticeable but this style generally doesn't use more than a tiny bit of hops. Unless you are a huge hop head you won't miss them.

If you've never had a white ale or a Belgian beer this is a great place to start. While this style is generally more popular on warmer days I enjoy a lighter ale to change things up in the winter. Spiced stouts and porters can get repetitive. This is by no means my favorite style but it can hit the spot now and then. A good go to beer at bars that don't have a huge selection.

Final Score: 75% (Refreshing, Different, and Available)

Beer Review: Lagunitas IPA

2008-11-13T23:34:00.002-05:00

Lagunitas Brewing Company India Pale Ale

After that blueberry ale I think it is time for a beer that reminds you why you enjoy beer. A beer that is about the union of malt and hops. A beer that shows the innovation of the west coast and the hops they love. This IPA pours a surprisingly light copper color with a short lived head. I was worried until I got some aroma. Pure floral and citrus goodness.

Flavor is very nice. The hops flavor really comes out immediately charging your tongue while the malt flavor soothes out the sharp flavor. Classic west coast IPA. My only criticism lies with the malt. I taste a cereal like flavor in it. I am not sure of the cause but it does distract and take away from the hoppy flavor.

This is a good IPA but it isn't a masterpiece. They nailed the hop flavor and aroma but the malt still needs some improvement. I wonder if the light color is related. Either way you will get your hop fix from this. A cleaner, richer malt would have made this a world class IPA. The hop addition needs no fiddling. Definitely worth a shot if you are craving an aggressively hopped ale.

Final Score: 81% (Hop Flavor Is Great. Cereal Malt Flavor Is Annoying.)

Beer Review: Wild Blue Lager

2008-11-13T23:03:00.002-05:00

Blue Dawg Brewing Company Wild Blue Lager

There is one tip off sign that should have told me that this beer would be different. The fact that this "beer" is called a blueberry lager but also referred to as a flavored ale on the side of the bottle. Correct me if I am wrong but as I understand it both can't be true. An ale is top fermented while a lager is bottom fermented. Maybe ale is just some antiquated way of describing that the alcohol content is above average. At 8% ABV you can't blame the alcohol for your lack of a good time. Just the flavor. As you can see in the picture above, this pours a very purple blueberry color with a short lived blueberry looking head. Aroma reeks of blueberries.

Flavor is just blueberry and alcohol. If this didn't say lager on the bottle I would have no idea this was even a beer. I get absolutely no malt or hops. Just fruit. Usually, a fruit beer can hit the spot if it is done with discretion and the beer flavor is in balance with the small amount of fruit flavor. There is no attempt at balance here. Pure berry alcoholic flavor. I really wish I didn't have a whole six pack of this.

This would make a great beer for someone who doesn't like beer. I don't really see the market for this since people who don't like beer won't buy this. People who like and want beer won't like this. This may be the worst "beer" I have ever had. Even other horrible beers at least bear some resemblance to the elixir of the gods. Let's get rid of the "may be". This is my least favorite beer. I can't even drink this. I don't recommend this to anyone. If you just want to get drunk try malt liquor or vodka. They are both cheaper and leave you less frustrated.

Final Score: 20% (Horrible Overbearing Fruit Flavor. No Beer Here.)

Stop Hiding!

2008-11-11T07:38:00.003-05:00

Is anyone else getting annoyed by Anheuser-Busch's attempts at disguising their own brews? A-B is attempting to tap into the craft beer market by producing their own versions of popular styles (Sun Dog, Beach Bum Blonde, Jack's Pumpkin Spice Ale, and Winter's Bourbon Cask Ale). I would have no problem with this if they were clearly marking the bottles as being produced by A-B. From a business standpoint I understand the desire to hide the fact that the beer is being produced by the same people who brought us Bud Light, but it really rubs me the wrong way.

When I do find this out (and I always examine bottles for hidden information) I feel deceived. I personally like that A-B is producing better beer and I am always interested to see how their offerings stand up to the craft beer giants (Boston Beer, Dogfish Head, Matt Brewing, etc.). There will always be those who will refuse to ever try anything from A-B because they are the big guys. Some unfulfilled desire to be rebellious and fight the man. I don't like to judge a book by it's cover. I have been guilty of it before but I have really started to open my mind and accept that every beer has it's place and time.

That being said, it really bothers me when I try a bottle of beer that is produced by what seems to be a ghost company. Like the Blue Dawg Brewing company's Wild Blue Blueberry Lager (review to follow). Correct me if I am wrong but this company is really just Anheuser Busch. The Blue Dawg brewing company makes only this lager and doesn't actually exist. "Blue Dawg" is A-B using a different name to conceal who actually created this beer. I enjoyed Budweiser American ale and I urge A-B to start taking some pride in what they do and clearly indicate what brews they put on the shelves. If they want to improve the perception of their name, they will have to make a strong effort to show what they can do and make sure they get the credit for it.

Beer Review: Sam Adams Cream Stout

2008-11-06T08:43:00.002-05:00

Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams Cream Stout Ale

I think it's fitting that I am reviewing this directly after the holiday porter. They are cousins but one is stronger and darker than the last. My final review for this year's winter classics mix pack. I don't get too much of an aroma from this but I may have waited too long. The appearance is about as dark as beer comes, some lighter brown on the outside of the glass but very dark overall. Head is caramel colored and lacing shows up strong.

Flavor is definitely deeper than the holiday porter. You really get down into the chocolate and coffee with this brew. Dark roasted goodness. This doesn't come free though. The price you pay is decreased drinkability and a slightly bitter aftertaste. The rich roasted flavor will fill you up very fast. Great flavor but this beer forces you to take the slow sipping approach.

This beer doesn't have any serious flaws. The increase in flavor causes a decrease in drinkability. It really comes down to your personal preference. If you want to down a couple of dark beers you may have to look elsewhere. I just find that after I have one, I don't want another. You will have a hard time finding a richer or more flavorful stout.

Final Score: 85% (Deep Flavor, Low Drinkabilty)

Beer Review: Sam Adams Holiday Porter

2008-11-06T08:18:00.002-05:00

Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams Holiday Porter Ale

Another seasonal offering from the Sam Adams winter classics mix pack. I am very mixed about porters at times. I generally find them to be much smoother than stouts but I just don't crave them very often. I am glad they used English hops in this brew. Not only is that more authentic but to me it seems to add smoothness to dark roasted brews. The porter pours a deep black color with a caramel colored head. Lots of lacing too. Aroma is hard to describe. I want to say smooth milk chocolate but it just sounds weird. Very pleasant though.

Flavor is very surprising. While I'll admit that I haven't had more porters in my relatively short craft beer drinking career than I can count on my hand, this is one of the best. The holiday porter is extremely drinkable in a way that even great lagers aren't while still providing roasted chocolate flavors. This is a way to get the best of both worlds. I didn't expect very much from this but the quality was a nice surprise. I don't know why they don't offer this year round. The roasted flavors are primarily a creamy milk chocolate with some light coffee mixed in. There is no bitter aftertaste, which I normally expect with such a dark beer style.

This is a great porter. If you like porters you would do well to pick up the mix pack and try this out. I can't find much to improve on this besides the malt character. The chocolate flavor is there but really not as upfront or as strong as you might desire. It's light in your mouth, has some good roasted flavor, and goes down very easity with no bitter aftertaste. This is an excellently executed beer and I will certainly consider getting more of these packs just to indulge.

Final Score: 86% (Boston Does England Proud)

Beer Review: Samuel Adams Cranberry Lambic

2008-11-03T21:05:00.002-05:00

Boston Beer Company Samuel Adams Cranberry Lambic

This is a very unique offering. Its not everyday that I get the chance to try a lambic. Mark from Must Love Beer gave me the suggestion of pairing this with turkey on Thanksgiving. That is something I must do. I will save at least one of these for that magical day where dinner happens all day. This is a beer I had been very curious about. I've had some authentic Belgian lambic imports and I wanted to know how Boston stacked up. This beer is also interesting because of the choice of fruit. Usually, fruit lambic beers utilize sweeter fruits (apple, raspberry, cherry, etc.) while this uses the juice of tart cranberries. Pours a cranberry copper-red color with an average head. Aroma definitely of cranberry and that characteristic sour lambic malt smell.

Flavor is surprisingly authentic. The sour malt tastes exactly as it should be, tart and crisp. The cranberry flavor really comes through. You don't have to do any digging to find it. I think they must have used sweetened cranberry juice as there is a sweetness to this beer that couldn't have come from cranberries and sour mash alone. This is very balanced but it is lacking some of the sharp flavor that you can get from a lambic of the Lindemans quality. The sweetened cranberries don't have the kind of clean flavor that this brew needs.

Even with it's flaws this is still a good beer. Not explosion of flavor good, but it is fairly authentic and a nice departure from the hop and malt variety. I am glad this is included in the winter variety pack and I would even consider buying this in sixes if available. Don't expect to be blown away but this is enjoyable.

Final Score: 82% (Tasty, but Lacks Depth and Refined Flavor)

Beer Review: Heineken Light

2008-11-03T19:33:00.002-05:00

Heineken Brouwerijen Heineken Light Lager

A friend of mine left some of these over after my Halloween party and I felt this was a good chance to review another light beer. Though, I will be honest and say that I have an idea of where this one is going before I even try it. Pours a light golden color with a decent sized head, aroma of sweet skunky malt, no noticeable hop background.

How is the flavor? There is some malt flavor that comes through but it's very skunky and doesn't really have anything complex to offer. Same kind of malt flavor in a standard light lager but with added skunk flavor. I can't really taste any hops besides the ones used for bittering. I honestly expected very little from this but I was still disappointed. I thought this would at least go down easy. The skunky old vegetable flavor is very unpleasant and I just wish they would brew this correctly. No skunking and good hopping to provide quality flavor and aroma.

One important question comes to mind. Is this beer better than a Bud or Coors Light? My answer would be no. While this brew does have more flavor, the flavor it does have I find to be unpleasant. Just reminds me of all the things I don't like about light euro lagers. I would rather have a Bud light that has less flavor but is far more refreshing. I don't even get refreshment from this. I can't believe I am going to say this but I would prefer a Milwaukee's Best Light over this. That's a bad sign.

Final Score: 40% (Bad Flavor, Poor Drinkablity, and Generally Boring)

Beer Review: South Hampton IPA

2008-10-30T19:24:00.002-04:00

South Hampton Publick House India Pale Ale

More Long Island suds. Gotta get them while I can. The back of the bottle goes into a history of the Publick House and the notables that used to frequent it flowing into a discussion of the India Pale Ale and it's balanced quality. I have mixed feelings about a balanced IPA. On most beers I really appreciate this quality but having grown fond of the pacific northwest aggressive hopping style I have a hard time viewing anything else as an IPA. When I go for an IPA I generally want to be overwhelmed with hops. Otherwise, I will go for a pale ale. Pours a rich copper color with a solid head. Aroma of sweet malt and some hop citrus smells.

Flavor is indeed what it promises. Very balanced and drinkable. The rich malt shines through being countered expertly with the hop flavor and bitterness. I appreciate it for what it is but I personally prefer my IPAs to be unbalanced. I want load of hops so that I get my fix. Don't get me wrong, this is a great IPA, it's just not the style of IPA that I prefer. Many will love this beer.

While it may seem like from my review that this beer doesn't have adequate hopping, this isn't the case. The hops flavors are always with you throughout your glass, they just aren't of the excessive quality that I like. If you are a fan of the more balanced European style IPA this is a wonderful beer for you to try. But if you went out seeking more hops than your tongue can handle, you will be dissapointed.

Final Score: 84% (Very Good and Masterfully Balanced, Just Not My Style of IPA)

Beer Review: Fosters Special Bitter

2008-10-30T18:08:00.004-04:00

. Fosters Australia Ltd. Fosters Special Bitter Premium Ale

This is my first Fosters beer. I had heard that the lager was just like any other macro lager and didn't really live up to the 90's hype that hit America. I saw that they had this giant can (25.4 oz) of special bitter ale and I had to give it a shot. I don't get too many chances to try this kind of ale and I wanted to see what Fosters take on this was. Pours a caramel amber color (makes sense since they add caramel color to the beer) with a white head. Some lacing all around the glass.

Flavor is fairly nice. I am not sure what the alcohol content is but they certainly don't do a good job of hiding whatever it is. I get that tongue cooling evaporation feeling during each sip along with a slight green apple taste that I find in many ESBs. This really isn't that bitter, I get a slight hop background used only for bitterness but no real hop aroma or flavor. This is a step up from your standard macro lager but it doesn't take it to a whole new level. This is on par with a Yuengling quality.

Overall, this is a very drinkable light ESB. Not the most flavorful or complex brew but it is fairly true to the style and at a very modest price. I would definitely consider getting this again if the craving hits me. I want to try their lager now just to see how that holds up. Give this a try if you are on a budget and want to try something that has some flavor. This would make a good intro to the style.

Final Score: 72% (Some Flavor and Style Points but Not Anywhere Near the Best)

Beer Reivew: Becks Oktoberfest

2008-10-28T19:27:00.002-04:00

Brauerei Beck & Co. Becks Oktoberfest Lager

I was very skeptical about purchasing this after being burned so strongly by Beck's light. I mustered up the courage and decided that it was only a brief commitment and that it can't be any worse than premiere light. They still use the damn green bottles. I was tricked into thinking it was amber from the beer color. Bastards. Pours an amber marzen color with a head that sticks around for a good period of time. Aroma is of sweet Munich malt with a hint of crystal. Kinda like sweet buttered bread. So far it looks the part.

Flavor was surprisingly nice. Nothing too amazing but the malt flavor really comes though. It has that sweet full character with a hint of roasting that comes from the crystal/Munich combo. The hopping leaves something to be desired. While not critical for this style it is required for greatness. The area where this beer really delivers is in drinkability. Goes down ridiculously smooth and I feel like I could drink the entire six-pack without thinking twice.

The drinkability and malt flavor make this brew pretty much dead on for the style. This won't be the best Oktoberfest you'll ever have but it is good and will certainly work in a pinch. I would like to compare this to Beck's dark and see where they differ. I have yet to try that. As far as I have experienced Americans ironically brew the best Oktoberfest beer. If they had hopped better this could have been world class. As it stands right now it's no better than average.

Final Score: 75% (Very Drinkable but Lacks Hop Background and Complexity)

Beer Review: Guinness Extra Stout

2008-10-27T22:43:00.002-04:00

Guinness Brewing Company Guinness Extra Stout Ale

One of the select few offerings from Arthur Guinness’s brewing company and a relative of one of the very first beers that got me into the world of craft beer. This is one of the quintessential Irish beers. This stout pours a deep dark black with a caramel colored head that sticks around for long enough. Aroma of alcohol and roasted malt goodness. All things to expect when drinking a strong stout.

Flavor is surprisingly smooth. I get caramel upfront followed by some cocoa and then a background of black coffee. Very tasty stuff. You can definitely notice the alcohol but not in a bad way. It serves to cool the palate and breakup the roast party. This also has a bitterness that I can’t quite nail down. If I had to guess I would say lactic acid but that could be way off. The bitterness keeps you awake and your tongue active while the other ingredients slowly go in and out of focus. Coffee aftertaste stays with you for a long time. I would like to try this blended with coffee and ice.

This is a real Irish classic and stands tall as an example of a great stout. I will certainly get this again in the future. It would be fun to have this side by side with the Guinness draught and see what differences can be found. If you have a hankering for something dark and bold, this will not disappoint.

Final Score: 83% (Smooth, Roasted, and Complex)